The Secretary General called for “a Thorough and impartial investigation of all allegations of excessive use of force.”, urging Tanzanian authorities to uphold accountability and transparency in the handling of post-election unrest.
According to the UN human rights office (OHCHR), credible reports indicate that at least ten protesters were killed when security forces used firearms and tear gas against protesters in urban areas, including the cities of Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga and Morogoro.
internet restrictions
OHCHR also reported that a nationwide curfew is in effect, while internet access appears to have been widely restricted since election day.
The UN human rights office urged authorities to quickly restore internet service and facilitate citizens’ full enjoyment of their rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. Protesters were also urged to demonstrate peacefully.
“Restricting communication will only further undermine public confidence in the electoral process,” the office said.
The violent post-election scenes come after election campaigns marred by accusations of arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition figures, including party leader Chadema and his deputy.
This followed reports of forced disappearances of dissidents, including the country’s former ambassador to Cuba.
Release detainees
“All those arbitrarily detained must be immediately and unconditionally released and those legally detained must enjoy the full right to due process and a fair trial,” OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango said, briefing journalists in Geneva on Friday.
“We urge the authorities to ensure prompt, impartial and effective investigations into all cases of election-related violence, and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” he added.