First day of elections in Tanzania leads to death of one civilian and one officer amid violence

Protests during elections in Tanzania on Wednesday, October 29, resulted in the deaths of a member of the public and a police officer. In light of this violence, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, confirmed the fatalities in a statement, expressing deep concern.

Chagutah noted, “The reports of one general member of the public and one police officer killed during election day protests across Tanzania are deeply disturbing.”

Consequently, he urged police to exercise restraint and avoid using excessive force against protesters, warning that the risk of further escalation is high.

Meanwhile, frustrated citizens took to the streets, claiming violations of the nation’s democratic laws as they headed to the polls.

This unrest follows the barring of the two main opposition presidential candidates, Tundu Lissu from Chadema and Luhaga Mpina from ACT-Wazalendo, from participating in the elections. As tensions rise, the situation remains precarious.