Tanzanian President Defends Police Actions Amid Protest Killings

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has publicly defended the actions of her country's security forces, who are accused of killing hundreds of unarmed demonstrators following the disputed October elections. In a national address, Hassan claimed that the protests were not genuine but rather orchestrated violence aimed at overthrowing her government. She alleged, without providing evidence, that young people had been financially incentivized to protest. “These were not protests, it was violence with malicious intentions,” she stated, emphasizing the government's duty to protect citizens and property.

CNN

The main opposition party, CHADEMA, has reported that over 2,000 individuals were killed during the protests, a figure the government has labeled as “hugely exaggerated.” While the government has not confirmed any specific death toll, it has focused on the damage to property rather than the loss of life. Hassan questioned the appropriateness of the police response, asking, “Were we supposed to wait until the protesters – who had planned to overthrow the government – had succeeded?”

CNN

An investigation by CNN revealed evidence of police firing on unarmed protesters, alongside satellite imagery and eyewitness accounts indicating the existence of mass graves near Dar es Salaam. Despite this, Hassan dismissed the notion of widespread youth discontent, asserting that the demonstrators were misled and unpatriotic.

CNN

Hassan's remarks come in the context of significant political repression in Tanzania. CHADEMA leader Tundu Lissu has been imprisoned since April on treason charges, and numerous government critics have reportedly faced abductions or arrests in the lead-up to the elections. Human rights organizations have condemned the government's actions, highlighting a broader rollback of democratic freedoms in the country.

CNN

In her address, Hassan criticized both domestic and international voices that have condemned the government's response to the protests. She questioned the authority of foreign governments to dictate terms to Tanzania, stating, “Do they still think they’re still our masters, our colonizers? Why, because of the little money they give us?”

CNN

The situation in Tanzania remains tense as the government continues to face scrutiny over its handling of protests and allegations of human rights violations. The president's defense of police actions reflects a broader strategy to maintain control amid growing dissent and international criticism.

CNN