Tanzania Launches Major Investigation Into Election Unrest as President Samia Orders Charges Dropped for Most Youths
A photo of the Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a major national effort to uncover the causes of the violence and tension that broke out during the October 29, 2025 general election. The unrest led to several deaths, injuries, and destruction of property across different regions. In response, the President has directed the formation of a special commission to investigate what happened and recommend steps to restore harmony in the country.
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Speaking before the 13th Parliament on November 14, 2025, President Samia expressed sorrow and concern over the painful events that shook the nation. She asked MPs and attending guests to join her in observing a minute of silence to honour those who lost their lives. With visible emotion, she offered condolences to the families affected by the unrest and wished the injured a quick recovery. She also sent words of encouragement to individuals who suffered property losses, noting that the government stands with them as they rebuild their lives.
President Samia explained that the newly formed commission will play a central role in finding the truth behind the disturbances. According to her, the investigation will help the nation understand the underlying issues that triggered the chaos. The findings will be used to guide open dialogue, promote calm, and rebuild trust among communities.
In a major move welcomed by many citizens, the President also directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to drop charges against a large number of young people arrested during the protests. She explained that many of these youths joined the demonstrations without fully understanding the consequences of their actions. After reviewing video footage and incident reports, it became clear that several of them were simply following others out of excitement or peer pressure.
“As a mother and guardian of this nation,” she said, “I urge the DPP to carefully review the level of each youth’s involvement. Those who were merely swept up by the crowd and had no intention to commit a crime should have their charges withdrawn.” She stressed that Tanzania cannot afford to lose its young generation to mistakes that were not planned or malicious.
The President also spoke directly to the youth of Tanzania, encouraging them to choose peace, discipline, and unity. She reminded them that the country’s stability is built on shared responsibility and warned against giving in to incitement or actions that damage national progress. “This nation belongs to you,” she said. “Do not let anger or influence from others push you into destroying your own future.”
To further support young people, President Samia revealed her government’s plan to create a fully independent Ministry of Youth Affairs. Currently, youth issues fall under departments that handle many different responsibilities, which limits the attention young people receive. The new ministry will focus entirely on youth needs, opportunities, empowerment, and policy development. In addition, the Office of the President will appoint Youth Affairs Advisers who will offer expert guidance on youth-related challenges and opportunities across the country.
President Samia told Parliament that the decision to set up a stand-alone Youth Ministry came after careful reflection on how best to serve the country’s young population. She noted that youth are a key part of Tanzania’s development and deserve specialised support at the highest level.
In her final remarks, the President called on all political parties, government officials, and citizens to unite and reflect on the lessons learned from the election unrest. She urged leaders at every level to maintain close communication with communities and respond quickly to public concerns. According to her, only through cooperation, dialogue, and honest self-examination can Tanzania move forward stronger and more peaceful.
