Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has begun her second term, taking the oath of office at a military base in Dodoma. This unprecedented move breaks from Tanzania’s tradition of public inaugurations, driven by deep political tensions after a highly contested election. The ceremony, held at the Tanzania People's Defence Force parade grounds, featured heightened security and was closed to the public. Only senior government and security officials attended; independent journalists and foreign guests were barred. State-run Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) provided live coverage.

President Samia, 64, was declared the winner with an overwhelming 98% of the vote. Her inauguration unfolded amid a nationwide internet blackout, ongoing curfews, and disturbing reports of protests and killings across several cities. Before the vote, her main challengers were jailed, disqualified, or under surveillance, effectively eliminating competition. This subdued event starkly contrasted with past inaugurations, which drew tens of thousands of citizens, diplomats, and regional leaders, symbolizing vibrant public democratic engagement.

The opposition Chadema Party has vehemently rejected the results, calling them a “mockery of democracy.” Spokesperson John Kitoka stated the vote “cannot be regarded as free or fair” and demanded a rerun under strict international supervision.

Allegations go beyond electoral fraud to include severe post-election violence. Chadema claims over 700 deaths, while a diplomatic source in Dar es Salaam told the BBC of “credible evidence” indicating at least 500 fatalities. The UN Human Rights Office has verified at least 10 deaths in three cities, warning the true toll may be much higher.

The Tanzanian government, through Foreign Minister Mahmoud Kombo Thabit, denied the allegations, describing unrest as “a few isolated incidents.” He defended the internet shutdown and curfews as necessary to “save lives” and curb “false information.”

Yet, witnesses in cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza report night raids by security forces in opposition areas. Residents say soldiers patrol after dark, while curfew restrictions keep potential witnesses indoors. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and many families cannot locate missing relatives.

Diplomatic missions in Tanzania have expressed grave alarm over the violence and urged authorities to restore internet access and allow independent investigations. Despite growing international criticism and domestic unrest, President Samia’s administration insists the situation is under control, paradoxically calling Tanzania “a beacon of stability in the region.”

With persistent curfews, roadblocks, and media censorship, many Tanzanians fear the country has entered one of its darkest periods since independence.