MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s Prime Minister, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, has urged the public and the media to approach discussions surrounding alleged deaths linked to the October 29, 2025 General Election with sensitivity, saying the matter concerns real lives and should not be reduced to speculation or numbers.
Speaking during a closed-door briefing with editors in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, Dr. Nchemba addressed growing questions from journalists and citizens who have been demanding clarity on reports of people who may have died during or after the election unrest. He noted that while various figures have been circulating in public spaces, the government would not immediately release numbers without verified facts.
“When someone asked why we are not listing people but we are listing buildings and other things, that question actually helped clarify why we must be careful,” he said. “We are talking about human lives — not statistics. That is why we are not announcing individuals until we have accurate information.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government is committed to safeguarding human rights and ensuring accountability. However, he stressed that premature declarations could cause distress to families and fuel misinformation. His remarks come amid heightened public scrutiny following a tense post-election atmosphere that saw protests, security deployments, and isolated clashes in several regions.
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Dr. Nchemba assured editors that relevant state institutions are conducting assessments to establish a factual record of events. He added that any confirmed findings will be communicated transparently through official channels. He also encouraged citizens to allow due process rather than relying on unverified reports circulating on social media platforms, which he warned can escalate fear and deepen divisions.
Media analysts say the Prime Minister’s remarks reflect an effort to manage a delicate situation at a time when the country remains politically alert and public trust is crucial. The call for caution aligns with Tanzania’s broader responsibility under international norms governing human rights and state conduct during elections. The elections themselves form part of a general election, a system widely used in democratic nations around the world.
As public attention continues to grow, observers note that the government’s response may influence how Tanzania navigates its political transition in the coming months. National security agencies and oversight bodies are expected to continue gathering information while maintaining order.
