Tanzania is going through a very difficult period, and the situation has drawn attention both inside and outside the country, Political Ringside has highlighted this growing crisis through a recent video by Tonny Nyakoko, who explains why the world is now watching Tanzania closely.
In the video, Nyakoko focuses on the unrest that followed the 2025 general elections and places President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the center of the unfolding events, offering a clear look at what is happening behind the scenes.
The problems began after the general elections held in late October 2025.
President Suluhu, who has been in power since 2021, was announced as the winner with a large margin. However, many opposition supporters questioned the credibility of the process.
There were claims that some strong opposition candidates were blocked from contesting, which created anger and frustration among many citizens.
Soon after the results were announced, protests started in major towns such as Dar es Salaam and Dodoma. People went to the streets demanding fairness and transparency, saying their voices had been ignored.As days passed, the protests became violent.
The main opposition party, CHADEMA, reported that hundreds of people lost their lives during confrontations with security forces. Some reports mentioned numbers as high as 700 deaths, although the government has not officially confirmed these figures.
There were widespread reports that police used live bullets to disperse crowds. Many people were injured, and families were left mourning.
The violence was followed by mass arrests, with opposition leaders, activists, and protesters being detained.
Authorities accused some leaders of inciting violence, while critics said the arrests were meant to silence opposing voices.
President Suluhu’s leadership has come under strong scrutiny during this time. When she first took office after the death of President John Magufuli, many people believed she would open up political space and reduce tensions.
However, during the election period, her government was accused of using force to suppress opposition.
In mid-November 2025, she announced a special commission to investigate the deaths that occurred during the protests.
She also asked prosecutors to consider dropping or reducing charges against young people involved in the unrest, saying some may have been misled. While this was seen by some as a positive step, others remain unsure whether it will bring real accountability.
In his Political Ringside analysis, Nyakoko explains that deeper issues are also fueling the crisis. He points to internal power struggles within the ruling party,
CCM, which may be adding pressure to the political environment. Economic challenges such as rising living costs, unemployment, and general hardship have also increased public anger.
According to Nyakoko, some groups may be using the unrest to weaken the president or advance their own interests.
Fear has spread in many areas, with people afraid to protest or speak openly.
The international community is watching closely because Tanzania plays an important role in the region. The United States has said it is reviewing its relationship with the country due to reports of excessive force against protesters.
Such a move could affect aid and trade. Neighboring countries like Kenya and Uganda are also concerned, as instability in Tanzania could disrupt regional trade and security.
Human rights organizations and the United Nations have called for independent investigations into the killings and arrests.
Despite the tension, there are small signs of hope. Some religious and community leaders are urging dialogue between the government and the opposition. President Suluhu has also spoken about unity and peace in public addresses, including during the opening of parliament in November.
On this analysts by Political Ringside, understanding what is happening behind the scenes helps explain why this crisis matters beyond Tanzania’s borders. The next steps will depend on honest investigations, justice for victims, and efforts to rebuild trust among all sides.
