Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan warned on Tuesday that the unrest following the country’s disputed October election could damage its access to international loans and aid. Speaking at the swearing-in of her new cabinet, Hassan said the post-election violence had “tarnished the country’s image” and urged government officials to prioritize raising funds from domestic sources. Tanzania remains dependent on external financing, with aid making up about 23% of government revenue in 2023, although reliance has been gradually declining.
The election sparked three days of clashes between protesters and security forces after key opposition figures were excluded from the ballot. Rights organizations, opposition parties, and the United Nations report that hundreds may have died during the confrontations, though the government disputes these figures. Hundreds more were arrested and charged with treason, although some have since been released at the president’s request.
Hassan was officially declared the winner with over 97% of the vote. Her new cabinet features her daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, and her son-in-law, Mohamed Mchengerwa, drawing attention to the influence of family in government appointments. African Union observers criticized the election for falling short of international democratic standards, a claim the government rejected, insisting the vote was free and fair. Calm has largely returned following Hassan’s inauguration, as she pledged to restore peace and stability across the nation.
