Tanzania’s general election has been marred by violence following widespread protests calling for electoral reforms and denouncing what demonstrators describe as the government’s suppression of dissent. Citizens went to the polls on Wednesday to elect their president, members of parliament, and local council representatives. However, tensions flared soon after, with protests spreading across major cities including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Mwanza. Angry youth clashed with police for a second consecutive day.

According to the European Parliament, the Tanzanian election “was neither free nor fair.” A statement published on the EU Parliament’s website claimed the process was riddled with irregularities and urged democratic partners “to stand firm in defending democracy and human rights.” The Parliament also called for the unconditional release of Tundu Lissu, leader of the main opposition party, CHADEMA.

Reuters reported that police in Dar es Salaam fired live rounds and tear gas on Thursday to disperse protesters who had returned to the streets a day after the election. Demonstrations were also reported in several areas, including Mbagala, Gongo la Mboto, and Kiluvya, where crowds demanded justice over alleged arrests of opposition leaders and the exclusion of opposition candidates from the presidential race.

Following the unrest, the Tanzanian government issued a directive ordering public servants to work from home on Thursday, citing “security concerns” raised by police. “Tomorrow, October 30, 2025, all public servants across the country will work from home except for those required to report to duty stations as directed by their employers,” government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa announced on Instagram. Citizens without urgent reasons to go out were also advised to stay indoors.

Protesters clash with police in Dar es Salaam amid unrest following Tanzania’s disputed general election.

Business owners in Dar es Salaam say they are counting losses running into millions of shillings due to the unrest. Internet service providers reported major disruptions after the government restricted online access, heavily impacting digital transactions and communications. Meanwhile, the National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun releasing presidential election results, with only four regions submitting official tallies so far. Early figures show ruling CCM party candidate and incumbent president Samia Suluhu Hassan in the lead.

Internet access across Tanzania remains severely restricted for the second consecutive day. According to global network observatory NetBlocks, “nationwide connectivity disruptions” were detected during and after election day, making communication and news sharing difficult.

The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania issued a security alert urging its citizens to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, monitor local media for updates, and exercise caution. The alert noted reports of “widespread protests leading to road closures and violent confrontations,” including the temporary closure of the road to Julius Nyerere International Airport.

Authorities in Dar es Salaam also imposed a nighttime curfew on Wednesday following intense clashes between police and protesters. Police Chief Camillus Wambura announced that the curfew would begin at 6 p.m. local time, instructing residents to remain indoors until further notice.

Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila earlier warned that “the government will take firm action against anyone disturbing public order.”

The ongoing unrest, communications blackout, and arrests of opposition figures have drawn growing concern from international observers and human rights groups, who say Tanzania’s democracy is under mounting strain.

Tanzania Election Unrest: Protests, Internet Shutdown, and Global Outcry Over Disputed Vote