Tanzania’s newly declared President-elect Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued a firm warning to protesters following her landslide electoral victory, calling the recent demonstrations across major cities “unpatriotic” and “destructive.”
Her remarks came shortly after the Tanzania Electoral Commission announced on Saturday, November 1, 2025, that Hassan had secured nearly 98% of the votes, earning a fresh five-year mandate to lead the East African nation of 68 million people.
The election results triggered days of violent protests in cities including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, Mbeya, and Songwe, where demonstrators denounced alleged election irregularities and the exclusion of opposition candidates. Reports from the opposition suggest hundreds may have been killed, though the UN Human Rights Office confirmed at least 10 deaths across three cities.
In her televised address, Hassan condemned the unrest, saying it betrayed national unity and democratic progress.
“The protests that took place were in no way supported by patriotism. A true patriot builds a country, not destroys it,” she said.
Hassan vowed to safeguard national peace and unity, insisting that Tanzania’s stability is “non-negotiable.”
“When it comes to the safety of our country and the unity of the United Republic of Tanzania, there is no alternative but to use all lawful and protective measures,” she declared.
The president-elect urged citizens to reject violence and instead focus on rebuilding the nation together.
“These acts do not strengthen democracy. I urge all Tanzanians to stand together and protect our country,” she added.
Hassan, who first took office in 2021 following the death of former President John Magufuli, reaffirmed that her new administration will prioritize national security, peace, and the protection of citizens’ lives, signaling a firm stance against political instability in Tanzania.
