Joseph Isangura
Veteran Tanzanian politician Wilbrod Slaa has urged the country to confront the painful human reality behind last year’s election violence, saying genuine reconciliation cannot begin while families are still grieving, searching, and waiting for answers.
In a candid interview, Dr Slaa spoke with unusual emotion, reflecting the deep wounds left by the events surrounding the general election. He said political leaders must resist the temptation to rush into reconciliation talks or constitutional reforms while some families do not even know where their loved ones are.
According to him, reconciliation is not something that can be declared through speeches or official meetings alone. Instead, he said, it must grow from justice, honesty, and compassion toward those who suffered the most.
“There are mothers who cannot sleep because they do not know where their children are. There are families who have not been able to bury their relatives,” he said. “How can you ask them to reconcile before you help them find peace?”
His remarks come as President Samia Suluhu Hassan continues efforts to promote unity following the disputed election period. The president, who became Tanzania’s first female head of state in 2021, has emphasized reconciliation as part of her broader reform agenda.
She has already formed a judicial commission to investigate the killings and other incidents linked to the vote, saying the truth must be established to guide the nation forward. Many citizens hope the inquiry will help the country turn a difficult page.
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The commission, led by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, has been listening to testimonies from political leaders, witnesses, and affected families. For many, the process is deeply personal. Some relatives say they are less concerned about politics and more focused on knowing what really happened to those they lost.
Still, Dr Slaa cautioned that investigations alone will not be enough unless they are followed by meaningful action. He warned that ignoring the suffering of victims could leave lasting scars on Tanzania and undermine trust in national institutions.
He also expressed concern that discussions about a new constitution, while important, could appear disconnected from the immediate pain felt by ordinary citizens. In his view, national healing must come first before political reforms.
Political observers say his comments reflect a wider national mood. For many Tanzanians, reconciliation is not just about political dialogue but about restoring dignity, truth, and closure.
