The U.S. Senate has called for an immediate investigation into post-election deaths in Tanzania, following a revealing CNN exposé by Kenyan journalist Larry Madowo. The investigation sheds light on the Tanzanian government’s crackdown on protesters, including allegations of mass graves.
In a statement, the Senate committee condemned the government’s actions, describing them as an “unacceptable attempt to cover up gross violations of human rights.” The committee criticized Tanzania for disputing casualty figures released by foreign media, stressing the urgent need for transparency.
“This report underscores the disturbing actions by the Tanzanian Government to suppress protestors. Evidence of mass graves shows an unacceptable attempt to cover up gross violations of human rights,” the statement read. The committee urged for an independent investigation into these tragic acts immediately, highlighting growing international concerns that the scale of violence may have been underreported.
The allegations follow Tanzania’s October 29 General Elections, where President Samia Suluhu was re-elected with 98% of the vote amid controversy. Widespread protests erupted across the country, with citizens alleging a rigged electoral process. CNN’s investigation detailed how security forces allegedly used lethal force against demonstrators, leaving morgues overwhelmed and some victims denied medical care.
Due to restrictions on foreign journalists, CNN relied heavily on satellite imagery and drone footage. Analysis revealed freshly disturbed soil at multiple locations, including the well-known Kondo cemetery, raising fears of mass graves.
Tanzania’s government has rejected much of CNN’s reporting, labeling it unbalanced. Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa accused international media of spreading unverified content and called for ethical journalism. “These outlets failed to seek out the government to hear the other side of the story. The government calls on CNN to exercise ethics in airing their stories,” he stated.
The U.S. Senate’s call for an independent investigation reflects growing global concern over human rights violations in Tanzania, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and transparency following the disputed elections.
