DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — A coalition of Western diplomatic missions has expressed deep concern over reports of killings, disappearances and rights violations linked to Tanzania’s recent elections, calling on the government to urgently restore public trust and uphold fundamental freedoms.
In a joint statement, 18 missions — including the British High Commission, the Canadian High Commission, and embassies from the European Union, Germany, France, Norway, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy and several others — said they “deeply regret the tragic loss of lives and numerous injuries” that followed the polls.
The group referenced earlier statements by the EU and by foreign ministers of Canada, Norway and the UK, noting that despite the government’s stated commitment to peace and stability, credible organisations had documented severe abuses.
Allegations of Killings and Disappearances
The envoys said domestic and international monitors had produced credible evidence of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and the concealment of bodies.
They urged Tanzanian authorities to “urgently release all the bodies of the dead to their families,” free political prisoners, and ensure that detainees receive medical and legal support.
The diplomats also pressed the government to act on recommendations issued by the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) observer missions, which highlighted significant shortcomings in the electoral process.
Joint Statement by the British High Commission, the Canadian High Commission, the Embassies of Norway, Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, and the EU Delegation, on Recent Events in Tanzania.
Appeal for Rights and Freedoms
The statement reiterated calls for Tanzania to honour its international obligations on human rights, including freedom of expression, access to information, and the protection of journalists and civil society.
“Security forces must act with maximum restraint,” the missions said, emphasising that constitutional rights must be upheld for all citizens regardless of political affiliation.
Call for Independent Inquiry
The envoys welcomed the government’s acknowledgement that understanding the triggers of the violence — including the deaths — is crucial for reconciliation.
However, they insisted that any inquiry must be “independent, transparent, and inclusive,” involving civil society, faith-based organisations and all political actors to ensure credibility.
Growing International Scrutiny
The coordinated statement underscores rising international pressure on President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration amid mounting fears that the post-election violence could destabilise the country and erode democratic norms.
Tanzania has not yet issued an official response to the joint appeal.
