Samia Suluhu inquiry begins as Tanzania probes deadly election violence, with the president urging leniency for youths arrested during protests.
Samia Suluhu inquiry has been launched as Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced the formation of a commission to investigate the killings that occurred during the election that returned her to office.
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Addressing parliament on Friday in her first speech since re-election, she said the loss of life deeply saddened her and extended condolences to the affected families. Her administration, she noted, is determined to uncover the truth behind the deadly unrest.
The election, held on 29 October, saw Hassan secure 98 percent of the vote according to the electoral commission.
However, allegations of rigging and state repression triggered violent protests that the opposition and rights groups claim left hundreds dead amid a sweeping internet shutdown.
Hassan also directed police and security agencies to show compassion towards young protesters, many of whom she said had simply followed the crowd without intent to commit crime. Hundreds were arrested and charged with treason, an offence that carries the death penalty.
“The government has taken the step of forming an inquiry commission to investigate what happened,” she told lawmakers, stressing that national healing required fairness and accountability.
She added that law enforcement must assess the level of involvement of each detained youth, urging them to correct their mistakes rather than face harsh punishment.
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The president’s remarks mark a notable shift in tone, signalling an attempt to ease tensions, rebuild public confidence and address concerns from both domestic and international observers.
