WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two senior United States senators have urged Washington to reassess its relationship with Tanzania, citing widespread political repression and deadly violence following the country’s October 29 elections.
In a joint statement, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jim Risch and Senator Jeanne Shaheen condemned the electoral process, which they described as “deeply flawed” and pre-determined.
They said public frustration over the disputed polls was met with a brutal crackdown by security forces.
“Tanzania’s election was decided well before October 29. In response, citizens took to the streets to display their deep frustration and anger. Unfortunately, the government’s heavy-handed security response resulted in the death of hundreds and the abduction and imprisonment of many more,” the senators said.
The lawmakers highlighted an “unprecedented level of violence” in the country’s recent history, noting that nationwide internet shutdowns further disrupted business operations and isolated citizens.
They warned that the ruling party’s actions had created an environment of fear that threatens both domestic and regional security.
The senators called on the US to reconsider the future of its ties with Tanzania, emphasizing that Washington’s longstanding partnership with Dodoma had been grounded in shared democratic values, global security, and economic cooperation.
“Tanzania’s continued pivot from the rule of law, reform, and good governance demands a genuine assessment of the U.S. bilateral relationship with Tanzania,” the statement said.
The remarks come a day after President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced an inquiry into the killings during post-election protests.
Hassan, re-elected with 98% of the vote, expressed sorrow over the deaths and instructed security agencies to show leniency toward some protesters facing treason charges.
Rights groups report that thousands were affected during the unrest, which was fueled by allegations of mass rigging, disqualification of opposition candidates, and a sweeping internet blackout.
While Hassan initially received praise for easing political restrictions after taking office in 2021, political repression intensified in 2024, with targeted kidnappings and killings of government critics.
