Tanzania Election Violence Leaves Over 500 Dead: An Inquiry Report

Fri Apr 24 2026 13:51:49 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A recent inquiry into post-election violence in Tanzania revealed that over 500 people lost their lives amid widespread protests following the controversial election results, raising concerns about the role of the security forces and the government's accountability.

An investigation into the violence following Tanzania's general election has found that 518 individuals died, including 197 who were shot. The report did not clarify who was responsible for the violence, but calls for continued investigation have been recommended. Opposition parties and human rights groups have previously accused the government of a brutal crackdown on dissent. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has defended security forces' actions while announcing plans for further investigation into specific incidents of violence.

A total of 518 people died in Tanzania from 'unnatural causes', including 197 who were shot dead, in the widespread protests that followed last year’s general election, according to an inquiry commision report. The commission, chaired by Mohamed Chande Othman, did not assign blame for the violence, recommending further investigations.

This marks the first time the authorities have disclosed the death toll, and it falls short of the higher numbers previously estimated by opposition parties and human rights groups, which alleged that thousands were killed during the riots. Hundreds of deaths were attributed to police actions, with reports of security personnel firing upon crowds.

Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who was declared the winner of the disputed election with 98% of the vote, defended the conduct of the elections as fair and criticized foreign entities for inciting violence. Following the report, she announced the formation of a new criminal investigation body to address crimes committed during the unrest, insisting the violence was a coordinated effort to create instability.

Opposition leaders and activists, however, have denounced the inquiry for lacking independence, indicating the government is the primary suspect in the alleged crimes. The inquiry also found that the victims included 490 men, 21 children, and 16 security officers, noting that the actual death count may be higher due to unreported cases.

As part of the investigation findings, the commission suggested several measures including medical treatment for victims and establishing a national day of mourning in memory of those who died. It also emphasized the urgency of political reforms to prevent future unrest, along with long-term suggestions to foster reconciliation within the society.