The Kenyan High Commission in Dar es Salaam has moved to reassure Kenyans living in Tanzania of their safety following violent unrest that erupted after the country’s disputed October 29 elections.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Mission emphasized that the welfare and security of Kenyans in Tanzania remain a top priority, confirming that it has engaged Tanzanian authorities to ensure adequate protection.
“The High Commission encourages Kenyans in Tanzania to continue with their lawful daily activities as usual,” the communiqué read in part.
The Mission further announced that it has resumed normal operations after the lifting of the curfew and movement restrictions that were imposed during the election period. Kenyans have been urged to stay calm, remain vigilant, observe local laws, and report any security concerns through +255 22 2668285/6.
The unrest follows the swearing-in of President Samia Suluhu Hassan on October 3 at the State House in Dodoma, after she was declared winner with 98% of the vote. Her deputy, Emmanuel Nchimbi, also took the oath of office.
However, the election outcome has been rejected by the opposition party CHADEMA, which was barred from participating and has dismissed the poll as a “sham.” The party has since demanded fresh elections, alleging widespread fraud and voter suppression.
Human rights groups and election observers have also condemned the process. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) observation mission reported cases of harassment and electoral anomalies, while the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) and the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) decried widespread violence against protesters.
“Although the exact number of deaths remains unconfirmed, our observation and various sources indicate that hundreds mostly youth have been killed, injured, or arbitrarily arrested,” the groups said in a joint statement.
The violence has been reported across multiple regions, including Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Mbeya, Arusha, Songwe, Geita, Mara, Shinyanga, and towns such as Tunduma, Kahama, Katoro, and Tarime.
Both THRDC and TLS have urged the Tanzanian government to end arbitrary arrests, uphold human rights, and restore public trust through peaceful dialogue and justice for victims.
