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Tanzanian authorities have imposed a citywide curfew in Dar es Salaam following violent clashes between protesters and police on election day, which left several people injured and caused widespread property damage. The clashes erupted as Tanzanians voted in presidential and parliamentary elections widely expected to hand President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party another victory. The main opposition leader remains in detention on treason charges, which he denies, and his party has boycotted the polls. Sources at the Muhimbili National Hospital told the BBC that they had received numerous wounded patients from the unrest, which saw protesters demanding electoral reforms and free political participation. Demonstrators set vehicles ablaze and vandalised public infrastructure in several parts of the city. Tanzania’s Inspector General of Police, Camelius Wambura, announced that the curfew would begin at 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT) and urged residents to stay indoors. He did not specify when the restrictions would be lifted. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila earlier warned that the government would deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt public order. Similar demonstrations were also reported in the south-western city of Mbeya and the border town of Tunduma. “We are tired… We want an independent electoral commission so that every Tanzanian can choose the leader they want,” one protester told the BBC. Meanwhile, internet access across Tanzania has been severely restricted, with global internet monitor NetBlocks reporting a “nationwide digital blackout.” Voter turnout in Dar es Salaam was reportedly low when polls opened on Wednesday, as many citizens stayed away over safety concerns despite police assurances that voting would be secure. More than 37 million Tanzanians are eligible to vote in the election, where 16 minor political parties are contesting against President Samia. The only major opposition contender, Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo party, was disqualified over legal technicalities. The ruling CCM has dominated Tanzanian politics since independence and has never lost a national election. President Samia, Tanzania’s first female leader, took office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli. Though initially lauded for easing political restrictions, her administration has faced criticism for renewed crackdowns on critics and opposition voices. The National Electoral Commission is expected to announce official results within three days of the close of polls. ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
