The United Nations has confirmed receiving credible reports indicating that at least 10 people have been killed in parts of Tanzania, including Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro, amid a growing wave of post-election unrest that has shaken the nation.
In a statement released from Geneva, the UN Human Rights Office said the deaths were linked to excessive force used by security agencies during demonstrations contesting the disputed election results. Witnesses and local rights groups reported that live ammunition and tear gas were deployed to disperse peaceful protesters, triggering panic and chaos across multiple towns.
“We continue to receive alarming reports of the use of excessive force by security personnel. We call for an immediate, independent investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable,”
In Dar es Salaam the country’s economic hub, witnesses described scenes of terror as security forces fired into crowds chanting pro-democracy slogans and calling for the election to be annulled. In Shinyanga, viral videos showed residents fleeing as shots rang out. Local rights monitors said at least three people were confirmed dead in Morogoro after police opened fire to disperse demonstrators.
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While the UN cites a conservative figure of at least 10 deaths, opposition leaders insist the toll is dramatically higher, claiming that more than 700 people may have been killed nationwide since protests erupted earlier this week.
“What we are witnessing is one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history. Citizens are being executed for demanding their rights, “an opposition leader, speaking anonymously for security reasons.
The Tanzanian government, however, has rejected the claims as “grossly exaggerated,” insisting that the situation is “under control” and that security forces are only targeting “criminal elements.” But independent reports suggest otherwise, with videos and eyewitness accounts revealing scenes of brutality that have sparked widespread outrage.
The unfolding crisis has drawn the attention of regional powers and international organizations. Neighbouring countries, including Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, have urged calm and called for inclusive dialogue between the government and opposition leaders.
The East African Community (EAC) expressed deep concern, reminding Tanzania of its long-standing reputation as a beacon of peace and stability in the region. Analysts warn that the unrest could destabilize not only Tanzania but the broader East African region, especially if heavy-handed security crackdowns continue.
“What’s happening in Tanzania is not just a national issue, it’s a regional warning. When democratic institutions are undermined, the entire neighbourhood feels the shockwaves, ”political analyst from African Democracy Watch, Nairobi.
Both the UN and human rights organizations have urged Tanzanian authorities to respect freedom of assembly and expression, warning that silencing dissent could deepen the country’s crisis.
“Democracy cannot survive under the weight of bullets,” one human rights advocate said. “Tanzania must choose dialogue over repression.”
As information remains tightly controlled and internet restrictions persist, it has become increasingly difficult to verify casualty numbers. However, the consensus among observers is clear, Tanzania is facing its most serious political crisis in decades.
If urgent steps are not taken to restore trust and accountability, experts warn that the country’s image as a peaceful democracy could be irreparably damaged, with lasting repercussions on its economy, governance, and international relations.
