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Samia Suluhu Wins Re-election in Tanzania Amid Violence, Opposition Outcry
Samia Suluhu Wins Re-election in Tanzania Amid Violence, Opposition Outcry
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured another term in office with an overwhelming 98 per cent of the vote, following an election marred by deadly violence, mass protests, and opposition allegations of widespread fraud.
The country’s electoral commission announced the results on Saturday, declaring the incumbent victorious after Wednesday’s poll, which was conducted under tense conditions marked by an internet blackout and the exclusion of key opposition figures.
According to official figures, Samia, who leads the long-ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, polled 97.66 per cent of the total votes cast, with a voter turnout put at nearly 87 per cent.
The opposition, however, has rejected the results, describing the process as “a mockery of democracy.”
The declaration sparked widespread unrest across major cities, particularly in Dar es Salaam and Arusha, where protesters clashed with police and soldiers.
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as demonstrators tore down campaign posters and burned tyres, chanting slogans demanding justice and a rerun of the election.
Opposition sources and human rights groups have painted a grim picture of the situation.
The Chadema Party claimed that about 700 people have been killed in the crackdown, while a diplomatic source quoted by the BBC suggested at least 500 confirmed fatalities.
However, the government has downplayed the scale of the violence. Foreign Minister Mahmoud Kombo Thabit described the incidents as “isolated disturbances,” insisting that security forces acted “swiftly and decisively” to maintain peace. Authorities have since extended a national curfew, citing the need to “restore order and protect lives.”
Critics argue that the election outcome was all but predetermined. The two main opposition figures, Tundu Lissu, who is facing treason charges, and Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo Party, who was disqualified on technical grounds were prevented from contesting.
Their exclusion effectively handed the CCM an open field, with only minor candidates permitted to run.
“The results are a complete fabrication,” a Chadema spokesperson said. “This election was neither free nor fair. It was conducted under intimidation, fear, and bloodshed.”
The developments in Tanzania have drawn widespread international condemnation.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the situation, urging all parties to prevent further escalation and to respect human rights.
In a joint statement, the governments of the United Kingdom, Canada, and Norway cited “credible reports of a large number of fatalities and significant injuries,” calling for an independent investigation into the violence.
Rights group Amnesty International also condemned the election process, accusing the government of orchestrating a “wave of terror” that included arbitrary arrests, torture, and enforced disappearances of opposition supporters claims the authorities have strongly denied.
Samia Praises Security Forces, Labels Protesters ‘Unpatriotic’
In her victory speech, President Samia commended security agencies for “protecting national peace and stability” during the polls.
She described protesters as “unpatriotic elements bent on destabilising the nation.”
“Tanzania has once again proven its commitment to peace and democracy,” she said. “The will of the people has spoken, and no one will be allowed to undermine it.”
Her remarks have drawn criticism from civil society groups, who argue that the government’s heavy-handed response has eroded public trust and pushed the country toward deeper political uncertainty.
President Samia, who first assumed office in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli, was initially praised for promising to open up civic space and reverse some of her predecessor’s authoritarian policies.
However, in recent years, her administration has faced mounting criticism over its handling of dissent, with growing reports of intimidation, media restrictions, and arrests of opposition leaders.
Analysts say the latest election outcome cements the CCM’s unbroken dominance since independence but raises questions about the country’s democratic trajectory.
“Tanzania is at a crossroads,” said one political analyst in Dar es Salaam. “What we are witnessing is the consolidation of power under a system that leaves little room for genuine opposition or accountability.”
With her re-election now confirmed, President Samia faces the dual challenge of restoring confidence at home and repairing Tanzania’s image abroad.
As curfews remain in place and communication networks slowly return, the scale of the violence and the true death toll may only become clearer in the coming days.
Diaspora Watch Newspaper is pleased to announce the release of its 98th edition, presenting readers with another rich blend of impactful stories, insightful analyses and inspiring human-interest features from across the world.
Leading this edition is the heartwarming cover story, “Godchildren Honour Emmanuel and Joy Ojiribe at 40th Anniversary Celebration in US,” which chronicles the remarkable legacy of love, faith, mentorship and family built over four decades by the celebrated couple, culminating in a memorable celebration attended by loved ones and admirers.
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The edition also brings readers up to speed on major international developments, including US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an Intel-Apple chip deal, Ghana’s move towards a local takeover of Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mine, CARICOM’s renewed commitment to improving citizens’ lives under incoming Chair Pierre, the possibility of cocoa prices rising above $10,000 per tonne once again, a comprehensive 14-Point Roadmap to De-escalation and Reconstruction, Singapore’s impressive 38.4 per cent growth in non-oil exports driven by artificial intelligence, and warnings from Kew scientists that AI and digitalization could play a crucial role in preventing global plant extinction.
On the back page, readers will find the inspiring story of Adenugba, who has been honored with the African Diaspora Fashion Platform Award, recognizing excellence, creativity and outstanding contributions to fashion within the global African diaspora community.
As always, Diaspora Watch Newspaper remains committed to delivering credible journalism, promoting African excellence, strengthening diaspora engagement and providing readers with balanced perspectives on global affairs, business, innovation and development.
The 98th edition is now available to readers across print and digital platforms. We invite everyone to pick up a copy and stay informed on the stories shaping Africa, the diaspora and the wider world.
SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX will be added to the Nasdaq-100 Index on July 7, following confirmation by exchange operator Nasdaq, a move expected to trigger a surge in passive investment into the aerospace and artificial intelligence company.
The inclusion means exchange-traded funds and other investment vehicles that track the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 Index will be required to purchase SpaceX shares, a development that typically boosts demand and supports a company’s stock price.
SpaceX, founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, made its Nasdaq debut on June 12 and has experienced volatile financial performance in recent years, alternating between periods of losses and modest profits.
The company reported a net loss of $4.9bn in its most recent financial year, underscoring the challenges it continues to face despite strong investor interest in its space technology and artificial intelligence businesses.
The company’s addition to the index comes after Nasdaq, alongside other major index providers including FTSE Russell and MSCI, eased some of its listing eligibility requirements in an effort to attract more companies seeking to list on U.S. exchanges.
The revised criteria include changes to profitability requirements, the waiting period after a company’s initial public offering and the number of publicly traded shares required for inclusion in certain indices.
Meanwhile, S&P Global has maintained a more cautious approach.
The index provider said earlier this month that it would not alter its eligibility requirements for SpaceX to join its flagship indices, including the benchmark S&P 500.
According to S&P Global, the company will not be considered for inclusion in the S&P 500 until it has been publicly listed for at least 12 months.
The development comes as other leading artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI and Anthropic, are widely expected to pursue initial public offerings either later this year or in 2027, with analysts projecting valuations exceeding $1tn.
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer, FLAC Nigeria, while calling on Nigerians to join efforts to combat cancer through increased awareness, early detection and sustained advocacy.
The governor made the pledge during a courtesy visit by members of FLAC and later at a gala night organised in their honour at the Government House in Owerri.
Speaking at the event, Uzodimma commended the organisation for its humanitarian interventions and contributions to improving cancer prevention, treatment and care across the country.
“I am excited to host you in Imo State and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his administration’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.
He described Imo as the hospitality capital of the South-East and welcomed the delegates on behalf of the state government and people, assuring them of their safety during their stay.
The event also featured emotional testimonies from cancer survivors, including men, women and children, who recounted their experiences with the disease while encouraging Nigerians to embrace early screening and treatment.
Addressing guests at the gala night, Uzodimma stressed that the fight against cancer requires collective action, public education and efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with the disease.
He also lauded the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its investments in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms in the health sector.
“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” the governor said, adding that early detection remains critical to improving survival rates among cancer patients.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate the governor for his consistent support for the organisation’s advocacy and activities.
She explained that FLAC, whose membership comprises serving and former first ladies across the country, marks Cancer Survivors Month every June to celebrate survivors, inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease.
She described the governor as “a special friend of FLAC” and presented him with an award on behalf of the organisation in recognition of his support for its mission.
The gala night featured musical performances, a fashion parade by cancer survivors, comedy, cake cutting, presentation of gifts to survivors and a fundraising session to support the organisation’s advocacy programmes.
Mrs Uzodimma disclosed that more than N100m was raised during the fundraising to support FLAC’s ongoing cancer awareness and advocacy initiatives.
The delegation included the wives of the governors of Adamawa, Zamfara and Ogun states, Hajia Lami Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Lawal and Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr Amina Abubakar; and former First Lady of Oyo State and ambassador-designate, Dr Florence Ajumobi, among other dignitaries.
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 98
CARICOM celebrates women in diplomacy, hosts young female honorary diplomats
The Politics of Akara and Kuli-Kuli Empowerment, by Boniface Ihiasota
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Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
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