Canada, Norway and the United Kingdom have issued a joint statement criticising Tanzania’s government for its violent response to nationwide demonstrations that erupted after a disputed 29 October election.
Foreign Ministers Anita Anand (Canada), Espen Barth Eide (Norway) and Yvette Cooper (UK) said late Friday they were “deeply concerned” by credible evidence of widespread casualties, including numerous deaths and serious injuries, linked to the security crackdown.
The three governments called on Tanzanian authorities to respect freedom of assembly and expression, emphasising that these concerns had already been raised directly with Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared winner of the vote with nearly 98% support, but opposition parties boycotted the election and alleged extensive intimidation throughout the campaign period. Protests broke out across key cities as crowds denounced the sidelining of political challengers, journalists and civil society leaders.
Rights groups and opposition figures have accused security forces of using excessive force. Chadema, the main opposition party, says hundreds of people may have been killed. The UN human rights office has confirmed at least 10 deaths in three cities, but internet restrictions and media limitations have made independent assessments difficult.
The three foreign ministers urged Tanzania to abide by international human rights commitments and guarantee that citizens can participate in political life without fear.
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Source:Africa Publicity
