Chaos in Tanzania as Election Day Spirals into Samia Suluhu’s Darkest Hour

What began as a routine Election Day in Tanzania quickly degenerated into widespread unrest, as cities across the nation erupted into riots, fires, and mass protests against President Samia Suluhu’s administration

Instead of patiently queuing at polling stations, thousands of Tanzanians took to the streets, demanding an end to what they described as years of political suppression, economic hardship, and authoritarian rule. From Arusha to Mwanza, protestors stormed polling centres, burned ballot boxes, and tore down pro-government billboards in defiance of the state’s authority

The police, overwhelmed and unprepared, struggled to contain the swelling crowds. Within hours, chaos consumed major towns, forcing the U.S. Embassy to issue a security alert advising its staff to shelter in place

By evening, a shaken President Suluhu responded by shutting down the internet and imposing a nationwide curfew. Despite the blackout, demonstrators stayed coordinated using Zello, a walkie-talkie-style app, to keep their movement alive

Human rights activist Tito Magoti reported at least five deaths, while diplomatic sources claimed the toll in Dar es Salaam alone had reached 10

Kenyan leaders and activists also weighed in. MP Caleb Hamisi wrote on X:

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“Instead of protesting election results, they are protesting the election itself!” , Former Governor Kivutha Kibwana added

“The spirit of Nyerere has entered Tanzanian Gen Z. They are demanding their country back.”

Exiled activist Maria Tsarungi Tsehai called October 29 a historic day  one that coincided with both the founding of Tanzania and the late President John Magufuli’s birthday noting the symbolism of citizens reclaiming their voice on such a date

As the smoke settled, one thing became clear: Tanzanians had awakened from years of silence. The day that was meant to cement power turned into a national reckoning  and perhaps, the beginning of a new chapter

Writer : Mweru Mbugua