The president of Tanzania has defended police killings that occurred during recent protests following the country’s disputed 2025 election.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan said security forces acted appropriately — a statement that has sparked outrage from human rights groups and opposition leaders.
The deadly crackdown began after her landslide re-election on October 29, which critics said was unfair after leading opposition candidates were barred from contesting.
Opposition groups claim that hundreds — possibly thousands — of people were killed when security forces opened fire on demonstrators.
Human rights organisations are calling for an independent investigation into the deaths, describing the violence as a serious violation of human rights.
Tanzania is now facing growing international pressure to reveal the true number of casualties, hold those responsible accountable and ensure justice for the victims.