More than 200 people have been charged with treason in Tanzania following violent unrest sparked by the country’s recent national election.
The protests erupted after the October 29 vote, which the electoral commission declared was won by President Samia Suluhu Hassan with 98 percent of the ballots. Opposition groups—barred from participating in the election—condemned the process as a “sham.”
Demonstrations quickly turned violent across the East African nation. Opposition figures and security sources claim that hundreds, possibly thousands, were killed, though authorities have yet to release an official death toll. A nationwide internet shutdown following the election has made it difficult to verify reports of the violence.
The legal proceedings began on Friday, November 7, when hundreds of people appeared before a court in Dar es Salaam, the country’s economic hub.
“All of these ladies and gentlemen—more than 250 in total—were arraigned in three separate cases, all charged with two counts: conspiracy to commit treason and treason itself,” said defense lawyer Peter Kibatala.
Judicial sources later confirmed that at least 240 individuals face formal treason charges.
The opposition party Chadema has alleged that over 800 people were killed in the post-election crackdown, a figure reportedly supported by some diplomatic and security sources, who suggested the true toll could be even higher.
Late Friday, Tanzanian police announced they were searching for several opposition leaders accused of involvement in the unrest.
Police spokesperson David Misime said in a statement:
“Based on our investigations and the evidence gathered, we are seeking ten individuals for arrest. We urge them to surrender immediately.”
Those named include Chadema Secretary General John Mnyika, his deputy Amani Golugwa, and party spokesperson Brenda Rupia.
