President Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued a strong warning regarding the violence and disruptions that unfolded across Tanzania on election day, saying the unrest was driven by external forces determined to destabilize the country. Speaking during an official address, President Samia said some foreign actors have been “irritated” by Tanzania’s long-standing peace and had allegedly infiltrated the country to sow disorder. She stated that these actors “came to destroy this country after destroying their own,” insisting that Tanzania’s stability has become a source of resentment for those seeking influence.
Condolences and Concerns Over Coordinated Violence
The President expressed her condolences to families who lost loved ones during the clashes, stressing that any loss of Tanzanian life is a pain felt across the nation. She noted that the disruption of business operations, damage to property, and the scale of the violence indicated a well-organized plot rather than spontaneous unrest.
Commenting on viral videos circulating online, President Samia said many of the youths involved appeared to have been trained or guided, claiming their chants and actions mirrored events previously seen in Madagascar, a sign, she argued, of a broader, foreign-backed agenda.
‘Not a Protest, but Orchestrated Violence’
President Samia questioned the timing of the violence, emphasizing that it erupted specifically on election day, which she described as suspicious. She dismissed claims of excessive force by security agencies, insisting that the response was measured and proportionate to the threat. According to the President, the aim of the instigators was to attempt a coup-style disruption, and critics expected the government to “sit back and watch” while the situation escalated.
Opposition Accused of Withdrawing for Political Advantage
Turning her attention to the opposition, President Samia said they were never prevented from participating in the election. Instead, she argued, they withdrew to avoid potential embarrassment, which later became the basis for excuses that fueled tensions. She questioned what rights were being demanded on election day, asking why grievances were raised specifically during voting instead of through established political processes.
Claims of Foreign Funding and Local Vulnerability
The President further alleged that the entire plan was coordinated from outside Tanzania and that some local participants were recruited because of financial need. She said many young people who took part did not fully understand the goals of those directing the unrest.
Reflecting on her efforts from 2020 to 2023 to build dialogue with the opposition, President Samia said she extended “a hand of mercy,” but regretted that the gesture was not taken seriously.
Message to Youth on Cost of Living and Global Realities
Responding to young Tanzanians who have voiced frustrations about the cost of living, the President remarked that she wished she could send them to other countries to witness real hardship, arguing that Tanzania remains comparatively stable.
Warning Against Foreign Interference and ‘New Colonizers’
President Samia criticized what she described as foreign arrogance, saying some countries behave as though they are Tanzania’s masters or former colonizers — a posture she strongly rejected. She highlighted Tanzania’s growing wealth, including rare minerals, stating that these resources have drawn significant interest from abroad.
They ignored us when we were viewed as poor. Now they are salivating over our wealth
President Samia Suluhu Call for Unity and Protection of National Peace
In her closing remarks, President Samia urged Tanzanians to preserve peace, unity, and national dignity, warning against being manipulated into conflict. She emphasized that the nation belongs to all citizens, noting that It should never reach a point where people of the same country fight and kill each other. So every Tanzanian mist protect the nation.
