DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over reports of deaths and injuries during post-election protests in Tanzania, urging all parties to exercise restraint and embrace peaceful dialogue to avert further violence.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Guterres called on Tanzanian authorities and citizens to reject violence and work together toward national unity and democratic stability.
“Deeply concerned by the situation in Tanzania, including reports of deaths and injuries during demonstrations,” he said.
“I call on all to exercise restraint, reject violence and engage in inclusive and constructive dialogue to prevent further escalation.”
The UN chief emphasized the organization’s readiness to support Tanzania’s peace and governance initiatives, pledging to assist in efforts that promote democratic accountability and long-term stability.
“The UN stands ready to support efforts aimed at fostering dialogue, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting sustainable peace in Tanzania,” he added.
Guterres’s statement follows mounting international alarm over the government’s handling of protests that erupted after the October 28–29 general elections, which observers and opposition groups claim were marred by irregularities and heavy-handed policing.
Earlier, the Foreign Ministers of Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement condemning the reported use of live ammunition and tear gas against protesters, urging Tanzanian authorities to respect the rights to peaceful assembly and free expression.
Rights groups and regional observers have reported at least 10 fatalities in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro, amid an ongoing nationwide curfew and widespread internet restrictions imposed since election day.
The UN’s call adds to growing diplomatic pressure on President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration to open dialogue with opposition leaders and civil society to ease tensions and safeguard Tanzania’s democratic space.
No official response has yet been issued by the Tanzanian government regarding the UN Secretary-General’s remarks.
