After four days of a nationwide internet shutdown, Tanzania has slowly begun to come back online, revealing the scale of unrest, injuries, and fear that engulfed the country during the October 29 general election.
The shutdown coincided with violent clashes between protesters and security forces in major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, Mbeya, and Songwe, leaving the nation with deep political and social wounds.
Among the issues that heightened political tension before the election was the treason case facing CHADEMA leader Tundu Lissu, filed earlier this year. Human rights organizations viewed the case as evidence of ongoing political challenges and the lack of political freedom in the country.
During the campaign and election period, Lissu’s name continued to resonate among his supporters as a symbol of opposition and hope for change. Youth movements, especially through the #MO29Movement, though not directly involving politicians, carried slogans and songs in defense of Lissu and in demand of political justice for all.
Additionally, the arrest of opposition politician John Heche shortly before the election further fueled anxiety. Many young people took to the streets peacefully, demanding free and fair elections and government accountability.
Furthermore, reports of excessive wealth accumulation by government leaders and their families, outspoken criticism from figures such as Pastor Josephat Gwajima against President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, and the mysterious disappearances of several individuals , including former Tanzanian ambassador to Cuba, Humphrey Polepole have been cited as contributing factors to the nationwide protests.
Slogans such as “We don’t want Mama Samia!”, “God Bless Tundu Lissu!”, and “No Reforms, No Election!” echoed through the streets as police used tear gas and live bullets to disperse and assault demonstrators.
Eyewitnesses reported that some protesters were shot, and others killed, though official figures have not been released. Activist sources allege that hundreds were killed during the protests, with several hospitals in Dar es Salaam receiving numerous gunshot victims.
From October 29 to early November 3, Tanzanians found themselves completely cut off from the rest of the world. Social media platforms, data services, and messaging apps were blocked across all major networks - Airtel, Tigo, Halotel, and Vodacom. Some managed to send short videos of the clashes abroad using VPNs or satellite links before the blackout deepened.
The government claimed the shutdown was a “temporary security measure,” but human rights organizations condemned it as an attempt to conceal state violence.
Meanwhile, several independent candidates complained of harassment and vandalism of campaign equipment. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) maintained that the election “went smoothly,” despite widespread reports of irregularities, empty polling stations, and low voter turnout.
Residents of Ubungo and Tabata described seeing burnt vehicles and scattered debris along the roads for days after the clashes. One resident, who identified himself as Amri, said police were “collecting bodies on the night of the 30th.” Hospitals were reportedly ordered “not to release death information to the media,” as many families continued searching for missing relatives whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Despite harsh public criticism over the killings and lack of oversight, the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) was seen focusing on restoring order and protecting civilians from police who were accused of using excessive force. This earned the army significant respect from citizens, who began to view it as a people’s institution rather than an oppressive force.
On November 1, the Electoral Commission announced President Samia Suluhu Hassan as the winner with 98.2% of the vote, granting her a second term in office. Her inauguration in Dodoma took place under tight military security, with only a limited number of guests allowed to attend.
In her inauguration speech, President Samia urged Tanzanians to “accept the results, reject violence, and focus on unity.” However, the silence that blanketed many neighborhoods reflected exhaustion, shock, and quiet resistance.
Several representatives from neighboring countries called on the government “to fully restore communication and ensure the safety of those detained for political reasons.”
Now that the internet is slowly returning, Tanzanians are piecing together the lost days - days when their democracy seemed to vanish online. Hashtags such as #MO29, #TanzaniaBlackout, and #MO29Movement have resurfaced, carrying images, testimonies, and unanswered questions.
What is clear is that the 2025 election will be remembered not for the ballots cast, but for the digital darkness that followed a symbol of how fragile freedom becomes when the voices of the people are silenced.
Global Perspectives and the Battle of World Powers
Analysts of international politics argue that Tanzania’s current situation cannot be separated from the ongoing rivalry between Western and Eastern powers. Some believe pressure from the United States and its allies is an attempt to caution President Samia over her deepening ties with nations such as China, Russia, and several Arab countries.
History shows that Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first African visit was to Tanzania, where he declared that China would regard Africa as a key partner in the 21st century. Since then, Tanzania has become a hub for major development projects under the Belt and Road Initiative a program viewed by Western nations as a threat to their interests.
Others suggest that the current situation is part of a “new economic cold war” between the Eastern and Western blocs, a conflict fought through politics, digital influence, and diplomacy rather than weapons.
Additionally, some have argued that unethical conduct among African leaders is what drives the masses to protest. It is noted that the current generation of youth (Gen Z — watoto wa 2000s) worldwide represents a generation of change. Thus, Africa is in a period of self-purification and renewed patriotism, with many advocating for their nations to be led by leaders who embody nationalistic values as seen in Tanzania, Togo, Mali, and Madagascar, following the example of countries such as Burkina Faso.
