As President Samia Suluhu Hassan begins her second term, Tanzania faces a defining moment — balancing stability with growing demands for democracy and accountability after a disputed election marred by protests and censorship.
DODOMA, Tanzania – November 3, 2025—Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been sworn in for a second term following a landslide victory in last week’s election that was marred by opposition boycotts, violent protests, and an internet blackout.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday at a military parade ground in Dodoma, attended by regional heads of state, senior government officials, and members of the diplomatic corps. Security was tight around the capital, with soldiers and police deployed in large numbers following days of unrest in major cities including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), President Suluhu secured 97.66 percent of the vote in the October 29 poll. However, the election was marred by widespread reports of irregularities, disqualified opposition candidates, and restrictions on media coverage.
Opposition leaders rejected the outcome, terming it a “sham election,” and accused the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party of orchestrating a crackdown on dissent. Civil society groups reported at least 10 confirmed deaths during protests, though opposition sources claimed the toll could be much higher.
In her inauguration address, President Suluhu called for calm and national unity.
“We must all work together to restore our nation’s peace and protect our hard-won unity,” she said, urging citizens to “move beyond election divisions” and “focus on development.”
Regional leaders and representatives from neighbouring countries attended the ceremony, including Kenya’s Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, who pledged continued cooperation under the East African Community framework. However, cross-border trade with Kenya has been affected in recent days due to security checks and protests near the Lungalunga–Tanga crossing.
President Suluhu, who first rose to power in March 2021 following the death of former President John Pombe Magufuli, made history as Tanzania’s first female head of state. Her second term cements her position as one of East Africa’s most influential leaders but also comes amid concerns over democratic space and human rights.
International observers and human rights groups have called for an independent investigation into post-election violence and the reported internet shutdown, which cut off access to social media platforms and news sites for several days.
Despite criticism, President Suluhu’s supporters say her re-election will ensure policy continuity and stability in a country that has long prided itself on peace.
As she begins her new term, attention will turn to whether her government engages the opposition, restores civic freedoms, and addresses grievances that have fueled the latest wave of unrest.
