Samia wins Suluhu with 98 per cent Tanzania polls
Tanzania’s National Electoral Commission has officially declared President Samia Suluhu Hassan the winner of the country’s latest general election, announcing that she secured an overwhelming 98 percent of the total votes cast.
The announcement has been met with widespread controversy and unrest across various parts of the country. Protests erupted almost immediately after polls closed on Wednesday, with demonstrators taking to the streets to question the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. In several regions, crowds reportedly clashed with security forces, while others were seen pulling down campaign posters and banners belonging to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.
Eyewitnesses in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza described tense scenes, with police dispersing protesters using tear gas and live ammunition in some areas. Human rights observers have expressed concern about the growing violence and have urged both the government and opposition supporters to exercise restraint and prioritize peace.
Although President Suluhu’s commanding lead has been confirmed by the electoral body, official voter turnout figures and total ballots cast have not yet been released, fueling further skepticism among opposition parties and civil society groups. Opposition leaders have accused the government of orchestrating irregularities and voter intimidation, alleging that the election was neither free nor fair.
The ruling CCM, however, has maintained that the results reflect the people’s will, emphasizing that the president’s victory is proof of public confidence in her leadership. Party officials have congratulated President Suluhu, saying her re-election is a continuation of stability and progress for Tanzania.
In her post-election remarks, President Suluhu thanked Tanzanians for their “unwavering trust” and pledged to continue her government’s agenda of economic growth, women’s empowerment, and infrastructure development. She also appealed for national unity, urging citizens to “move forward together” despite political differences.
As the dust settles, many Tanzanians remain divided—some celebrating the outcome as a triumph for continuity, while others view it as a sign of deepening authoritarianism. The days ahead are expected to test both the government’s commitment to democracy and the resilience of the nation’s institutions.
Samia wins Suluhu with 98 per cent Tanzania polls
