Tight Security as Samia Suluhu Takes Oath Following Violence-Marred Poll

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially been sworn in for a second term in office, following a hotly disputed election that was marred by violence, deadly protests, and allegations of vote rigging.

The inauguration ceremony, held under tight security at a military parade ground in Dodoma, was closed to the public but broadcast live by the state-run Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC).

Samia, who has now secured a mandate to lead the country until 2030, was declared the winner with 98 percent of the vote on Saturday. Her overwhelming victory came amid reports that key opposition candidates were either imprisoned or disqualified from participating in the race.

Violence and Internet Blackout

The aftermath of the election has been overshadowed by widespread violence and a nationwide internet shutdown, making it difficult to verify the full extent of the casualties.

While authorities have downplayed reports of bloodshed, international observers have voiced deep concern over the lack of transparency in both the voting process and the handling of post-election unrest.

According to the opposition Chadema party, at least 800 people were killed in clashes with security forces.

A diplomatic source in Tanzania told the BBC that there was credible evidence of no fewer than 500 deaths, while the UN Human Rights Office confirmed at least 10 fatalities in three cities.

Samia Defends Election as “Free and Democratic”

In her victory speech, President Samia defended the electoral process, insisting that the poll was both free and democratic. She dismissed claims of fraud and condemned protesters as “unpatriotic”, vowing to maintain peace and stability in the country.

However, the opposition and human rights groups continue to reject the results, accusing the government of intimidation, censorship, and the use of excessive force to silence dissent.

As Samia begins her second term, Tanzania faces mounting scrutiny from the international community, which is calling for accountability, political reform, and a transparent investigation into the reported violence.