Story perspectives

Tanzanian President Orders Probe, Apologizes for Internet Shutdown

4/24/2026

Summary

Samia Launches Probe

President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced a criminal investigative body to probe unrest that killed at least 518 people.
Commission chair Mohamed Chande Othman warned the death toll could be higher, said buried without morgue records, reported 800 gunshot wounds, 245 missing, and rejected mass-grave claims.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan said the findings will guide constitutional amendments and a reconciliation commission, and she apologized for the Oct 29 internet shutdown.

Summary

Samia Funds Care

UN experts estimated at least 700 deaths in the unrest, above the commission’s 518 count.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced a programme to fund medical care and prosthetic limbs for disabled victims.
The African Union and Southern African Development Community criticised October 29, 2025 election for failing democratic standards and urged transparency.
The commission recommended drafting a new constitution by 2028 and creating a national day of mourning for the 518 victims.

History

Historical Context

Tanzania's unrest in 2022, resulting in at least 518 deaths, echoes the 1998 Zanzibar riots, which also stemmed from political tensions and led to calls for constitutional reforms. President Samia Suluhu Hassan's establishment of a criminal investigative body aims to address these historical grievances, as the nation grapples with ongoing violence and demands for accountability following years of increasing authoritarianism.

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Samia Launches Probe

President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced a criminal investigative body to probe unrest that killed at least 518 people.
Commission chair Mohamed Chande Othman warned the death toll could be higher, said buried without morgue records, reported 800 gunshot wounds, 245 missing, and rejected mass-grave claims.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan said the findings will guide constitutional amendments and a reconciliation commission, and she apologized for the Oct 29 internet shutdown.

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