- The European Union Parliament voiced support for the ongoing protests in Tanzania, calling them a legitimate demand for democracy
- EU lawmakers urged the Independent Electoral Commission not to announce any winner until investigations into alleged irregularities are done
- The parliament warned the Tanzanian military against using force, insisting its role should only ensure a peaceful transition
- Lawmakers cautioned the international community against recognising the election results before credible verification
Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
The European Union Parliament has expressed its backing of the ongoing protests that have rocked Tanzania since Wednesday, October 29, elections.
Source: UGC
The call comes amidst rising protests in Tanzania over the recently held general elections that the opposition and civil societies have labelled unfair.
Demonstrations have spread to all major cities, with citizens demanding transparency and accountability from the electoral authorities.
Why should Tanzania wait before declaring results?
In a statement signed jointly by members of the European parliament, David McAllister, Barry Andrews, Udo Bullmann, Robert Biedroń, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, and Erik Marquardt, the parliament called on the country’s Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, not to declare any winner of the election.
According to the EU lawmakers, the electoral body should wait until proper investigations into alleged irregularities are completed.
They further made it known that the demonstrations reported in various Tanzanian cities are a legitimate call for justice and democratic accountability, rejecting any narrative that would portray them as violent.
“We express our deep solidarity with the people of Tanzania who are courageously taking to the streets to demand democracy, justice, and accountability. 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 statement said in part.
United Nations (UN) secretary general António Guterres also waded into the unrest in Tanzania, calling for restraint among all involved.
Guterres appealed for dialogue in the East African nation, adding that the UN was ready to back any efforts at mitigating the matter.
“Deeply concerned by the situation in Tanzania, including reports of deaths & injuries during demonstrations. I call on all to exercise restraint, reject violence & engage in inclusive & constructive dialogue to prevent further escalation. The @UN stands ready to support efforts aimed at fostering dialogue, strengthening democratic governance & promoting sustainable peace in Tanzania,” Guterres wrote on X.
What is EU parliament’s message to Tanzanian military?
The parliament further urged Tanzania’s military officers to exercise caution in handling the ongoing protests.
They warned that any military involvement in the situation must be limited to facilitating a peaceful transition, rather than seizing power.
“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,” continued the statement.
Source: UGC
According to the lawmakers, the international community should remain sceptical about the projected results, warning against premature recognition of the election outcome.
The parliament reiterated its solidarity with Tanzanians, stating that the people deserve an administration that reflects their dreams and aspirations for the country.
“The international community must refrain from hastily recognising the recent election results until credible investigations have taken place and democratic standards are ensured. 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,” the statement read.
How many people have been killed in Tanzania unrest?
As reported earlier, opposition party CHADEMA claimed about 700 people were killed during three days of nationwide protests.
However, the United Nations Human Rights Office confirmed at least 10 deaths and condemned the use of live ammunition against civilians.
Authorities imposed a curfew, deployed the army, and shut down internet access to control the situation.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
