First Female President in Tanzania Sparks Protests

By Madelyn Williams

Tanzania has elected its first female president. President Samia has taken office following an election that many describe as less of a contest and more of a coronation. She previously served as vice president under the former president until his death in office. Her predecessor was admired for his determination to stamp out corruption, while President Samia has been regarded as a breath of fresh air.

She ran on a platform focused on dialogue rather than decree and is admired by Tanzanian women as a role model for girls across the country. Her campaign centered on the “Four R’s” policy: Reconciliation, Resilience, Reform, and Rebuilding. She aims to open Tanzania to foreign investment, restore relations with international donors, and reassure the IMF and World Bank of Tanzania’s economic stability.

President Samia’s party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has won every election since Tanzania became a multiparty democracy. However, the elections have been marred by controversy, as many members of the public have accused the ruling party of rigging the results. The leader of the main opposition party was barred from running and later put on trial for treason after calling for election reforms and urging his supporters to boycott the vote. The leader of the second-largest opposition party was disqualified twice.

As a result, many citizens felt there was little point in voting since the outcome seemed predetermined. A CCM member who publicly criticized President Samia’s automatic candidacy was reportedly abducted under mysterious circumstances. Meanwhile, Tanzania’s youth, who make up the majority of the electorate, end to view Samia unfavorably. Many express frustrations over her silence regarding the rise in abductions and their belief that the elections were fraudulent.

In light of the alleged election fraud, protests have erupted across the nation. Demonstrators have denounced the elections as a sham and accused the government of undermining democracy. Even EU lawmakers have condemned the elections as illegitimate. Thousands have taken to the streets, particularly in Dar es Salaam, organizing demonstrations through a walkie-talkie app called Zello.

Some protesters have crossed into Kenya, blocking traffic, setting fires, and tearing down posters of President Samia. In response, the Kenyan government has urged its citizens not to join the protests. Tanzanian police have fired gunshots and tear gas into crowds, resulting in at least two deaths so far. A curfew has been enacted in the capital city, but it has done little to stop people from rallying.