Joseph Isangura
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for unity and calm as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of deadly unrest that erupted during the October 29 general election.
Opening the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania in Dodoma on Friday, November 14, 2025, she began her address by asking members and guests to stand for a minute of silence in honour of those who lost their lives.
The President said the country was going through “a painful and challenging moment,” acknowledging the deaths, injuries and widespread destruction of property reported across several regions. She expressed her personal sympathy to the families mourning loved ones, those nursing injuries and those counting losses from vandalism and arson.
President Samia explained that the government has already formed a special commission to investigate what triggered the violence, how events unfolded and who should be held accountable. Its findings, she said, will guide the country toward restoring peace and rebuilding trust.
The October 29 election — intended to strengthen national democracy — instead turned into one of the most turbulent periods in recent years. Many areas experienced confrontations between security forces and demonstrators following disputes over the credibility of the vote.
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The unrest cast a shadow over the electoral process and raised concerns among observers about the health of the country’s democratic institutions.
In her speech, President Samia stressed that political differences should never push the nation toward conflict. She appealed to leaders from all sides to prioritise dialogue and work together to calm tensions. She also said the government must move swiftly and transparently to address public concerns, adding that truth is essential to healing.
Religious leaders and civil society groups have also urged restraint, calling the recent violence a national tragedy that should serve as a turning point. Many families continue to search for missing relatives, while communities affected by the clashes are slowly beginning to pick up the pieces.
Despite the tension, the President’s address signaled an attempt to shift from shock and grief toward national recovery. However, analysts note that the coming weeks will determine whether the government can rebuild confidence, ensure accountability and open space for meaningful political reforms.
