Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured a sweeping victory — nearly 98% of the vote.
The election has sparked anger and deadly unrest across the country.
The win, announced Saturday, gives Hassan, 65, another five years in power.
But it comes amid accusations of repression and an opposition boycott that turned what critics called a “coronation” into chaos.
Protests erupted during Wednesday’s vote, with demonstrators tearing down campaign banners and torching buildings.
Police fired tear gas and bullets as they clashed with protesters.
The opposition claims hundreds were killed, though the U.N. says at least 10 deaths have been verified in three cities.
The government insists the toll is “hugely exaggerated.”
Controversy Over Election
Authorities have since imposed a nationwide curfew and restricted internet access.
Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo dismissed claims of excessive force, saying only “small pockets of incidents” occurred.
Once praised for loosening the iron grip of her predecessor, Hassan now faces growing criticism.
She is accused of human rights abuses and crackdowns on rivals.
“We need accountability, not coronations,” one opposition figure said before being disqualified from the race.
The electoral commission, however, insists the process was fair, boasting an 87% turnout.
Yet with her biggest challengers barred from running, many Tanzanians are asking — was this really an election or just a show of power?
