Samia Suluhu Hassan was officially sworn in as Tanzania’s president on Monday following a contentious election that triggered deadly protests across the country.
Hassan took the oath of office at a military base in the capital, Dodoma, in a ceremony closed to the public due to the violence surrounding the October 29 vote. The election barred the two main opposition candidates from running, leaving Hassan to face only minor opposition contenders. She secured nearly 98% of the vote, cementing her hold on power.
State television showed officials and foreign dignitaries attending the ceremony at the State House parade grounds rather than a stadium, reflecting heightened security concerns. Meanwhile, tensions remained high in Tanzania’s commercial hub, Dar-es-Salaam, where shops remained closed and streets were largely empty. A total internet blackout has been in effect since the protests began on election day.
Chadema, the country’s main opposition party, rejected the results, calling the vote a “sham” and demanding fresh elections. The party reported that hundreds of protesters were killed during clashes with police, who allegedly used tear gas and live ammunition while government buildings were set on fire. Chadema suggested that as many as 800 people may have died nationwide, although these figures could not be independently verified.
The United Nations human rights office confirmed credible reports of at least 10 deaths in three cities, while Tanzania’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo denied the use of “excessive force” and said the government has no official data on casualties.
Hassan, who became vice president in 2015 and assumed office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli, has faced criticism for a pattern of crackdowns, disappearances, and harassment of critics ahead of the election. Analysts say the exclusion of her major challengers and the sweeping victory reflect her intent to consolidate power and suppress opposition.
The Independent National Electoral Commission disqualified Chadema in April for refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct. The final results showed Hassan winning 97.66% of the vote, dominating all constituencies.
