By Dayo Adesulu | The Cheer News | October 31, 2025
Tanzania in Turmoil Following Disputed Elections
Tanzania has been thrown into chaos following its October 29 general election, as violent protests spread across major cities and questions mount over the whereabouts of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Reports from Kenyan and international media indicate that communication lines remain largely disrupted, while heavy security presence dominates the streets of Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Arusha, and Mbeya.
The protests erupted after opposition supporters accused the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party of manipulating election results and disqualifying opposition candidates. Despite assurances of a free and fair process, observers and civil society groups have condemned the election as deeply flawed.
Curfew Declared and Military Deployed
According to Reuters, Tanzanian authorities have declared a nighttime curfew in Dar es Salaam and deployed military units to restore order. Armoured vehicles were sighted near key government buildings, while major roads leading into the capital have been sealed off.
The Associated Press also confirmed that security forces fired live ammunition and tear gas to disperse demonstrators, leading to multiple injuries and unconfirmed fatalities. Witnesses in Mbeya and Mwanza reported sporadic gunfire and the arrest of several opposition leaders.
The communication blackout has further complicated the situation. Internet access and mobile services were disrupted, making independent verification of events nearly impossible.
Uncertainty Over President Samia Suluhu’s Whereabouts
One of the most alarming developments, as highlighted by TUKO.co.ke, is the growing uncertainty surrounding President Samia Suluhu’s location. Kenyan newspaper reviews published Friday morning reported that the Tanzanian leader has not been seen in public since voting day, fueling speculation about her safety or possible internal divisions within her administration.
Senior officials in Dodoma have also remained silent, with no public statements from the Prime Minister or cabinet members since the protests began. The absence of clear communication from State House has left Tanzanians anxious, as rumours spread rapidly in the absence of verifiable information.
Clashes at Namanga Border
Tension spilled over into the Namanga border area between Kenya and Tanzania on Thursday, October 30. Eyewitnesses told The Standard that youths from both sides clashed with Tanzanian police officers stationed at the border. The officers reportedly fired tear gas and live rounds after protesters hurled stones, forcing traders and transporters to flee for safety.
Kenyan authorities temporarily closed part of the border to prevent further escalation, while local businesses in Kajiado and Longido reported disruptions to cross-border trade.
Opposition Cries Foul Over “Shambolic Election”
Opposition parties, particularly CHADEMA and ACT Wazalendo, have rejected the outcome of the polls, calling them a “complete farce.” They allege widespread voter intimidation, ballot stuffing, and the disqualification of major opposition candidates ahead of the election.
International watchdogs have also criticized the process. The Washington Post and Al Jazeera reported that several opposition leaders were detained or prevented from holding rallies, raising concerns about democratic backsliding in East Africa’s second-largest economy.
Regional Ripples and Economic Fallout
The crisis has already begun to impact Kenya and other neighbouring countries. Businesses dependent on Tanzanian imports have reported delays due to curfews, roadblocks, and internet shutdowns. Logistics firms and cross-border transporters told TUKO that hundreds of trucks remain stranded at the Namanga and Holili borders.
Economists warn that if the unrest continues, the region could face supply chain disruptions affecting food, fuel, and manufactured goods.
What Lies Ahead
As the situation deteriorates, questions persist about President Suluhu’s silence and the government’s strategy to restore calm. Analysts say a public address or verified sighting of the president could ease tensions, but the longer the uncertainty continues, the greater the risk of instability.
Regional bodies like the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. However, no formal statement has yet been issued from Dodoma or the CCM leadership.
For now, Tanzanians remain caught in a tense and uncertain moment — a nation
waiting for answers as protests flare and leadership remains unseen.
