Demands for post-poll justice as Tanzania accused of weaponising counterterrorism laws
Families in Tanzania are seeking justice and medical aid for victims of election-related violence a year ago, which reportedly led to at least 500 deaths. Amnesty International accuses the Tanzanian government of weaponizing counterterrorism laws to silence critics and instil fear, citing widespread human rights violations.
Why it matters
This report highlights severe human rights abuses and democratic backsliding in Tanzania, raising international concerns about political freedoms, the rule of law, and the potential for ongoing instability. It underscores the challenges faced by opposition figures and civil society in the region.
Neema Munuo, whose 18-year-old daughter Maria Chami was shot dead on the day of the election, wants the government to acknowledge her suffering/BBC Families affected by election-related violence in Tanzania that led to the deaths of at least 500 people a year ago have told the BBC they want justice for those killed in the protests and help with medical expenses for those injured.
"We can no longer afford to pay hospital bills," Meshack Sane, who was shot in the leg, told the BBC.
On the eve of the anniversary of the poll that saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan elected with 98% of the vote, rights group Amnesty International also accused her government of "weaponising counterterrorism laws to silence critics and instil fear".
The opposition dismissed the result as a "mockery" of democracy as Samia's two main challengers were excluded.
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