EU lawmakers express solidarity with Tanzanians protesting for democracy

A group of members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has expressed solidarity with Tanzanians who have taken to the streets following Wednesday’s general election, calling the demonstrations a “legitimate, broad-based movement for democratic renewal.”

In a joint statement issued on Friday, the lawmakers - Barry Andrews (Renew Europe), Robert Biedroń (S&D), Udo Bullmann (S&D), Michael Gahler (EPP), David McAllister (EPP), and Erik Marquardt (Greens/EFA) - voiced concern over reports of violence and loss of life during the ongoing protests.

“We express our deep solidarity with the people of Tanzania who are courageously taking to the streets to demand democracy, justice, and accountability,” the statement read.

“These are not riots or acts of chaos, but a legitimate, broad-based movement for democratic renewal that brings together citizens from all generations and social backgrounds.”

The MEPs urged the international community to refrain from recognising the election results until credible investigations are carried out.

“The international community must refrain from hastily recognising the recent election results until credible investigations have taken place and democratic standards are ensured,” they said.

They further cautioned the Tanzanian military against seizing control or suppressing public dissent, stressing that any intervention should support, not undermine, democracy.

“If the military assumes a role in this critical moment, it must be strictly limited to facilitating a peaceful and democratic transition, not entrenching power,” the lawmakers stated.

The statement concluded by affirming the Tanzanian people’s right to freedom and self-determination.

“The people of Tanzania deserve freedom, dignity, and a government that reflects their will. We stand with all those peacefully calling for democracy and human rights in Tanzania and across the region.”

Around 700 people have been killed in three days of election protests in Tanzania, the main opposition party said Friday, with protesters still on the streets in the midst of an internet blackout.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose government is accused of a campaign of repression, had sought to cement her position and silence critics in her party in the virtually uncontested polls, with the main challengers either jailed or barred from standing.

Wednesday's election descended into chaos as huge crowds took to the streets of Dar es Salaam and other cities, tearing down her posters and attacking police and polling stations, leading to an internet shutdown and curfew.