Over 200 individuals have been accused of treason in Tanzania after days of protests linked to the recent national election.
The protests followed an October 29th election that the electoral commission declared President Samia Suluhu Hassan won with 98 percent of the vote. The opposition, which was prohibited from participating, has openly labeled the election as a “sham.”
Violent protests broke out across the East African nation on election day. Opposition leaders and security sources have suggested that the casualties could number in the hundreds, if not thousands, though authorities have not yet provided an official count of the dead or injured.
The judicial process commenced when hundreds of individuals appeared in court on Friday, November 7, in the economic hub, Dar es Salaam. Lawyer Peter Kibatala confirmed the large-scale arraignment.
“All of these ladies and gentlemen, numbering more than 250 in total, were arraigned in three separate cases… and they’re all charged with two sets of offences,” Kibatala stated. “The first set of offences is a conspiracy to commit treason. And the second set of offences is treason itself.”
Judicial sources confirmed knowledge of at least 240 individuals charged. The internet blackout that persisted for days after the election has hindered the dissemination of verified information about the violence.
The opposition party, Chadema, claims that at least 800 people were killed in the election-related violence. This figure has been corroborated by diplomatic and security sources, who also noted that credible reports indicate the casualty numbers could potentially reach into the thousands.
Tanzanian police announced late Friday that they are actively seeking several opposition party leaders in connection with the post-election violence.
Police spokesperson David Misime issued a statement confirming the search: “Following our investigations and evidence we gathered, we are looking for these 10 people to arrest them. We call on them to surrender to the police immediately.” The opposition figures being sought include Secretary General John Mnyika, his deputy Amani Golugwa, and spokesperson Brenda Rupia.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli