US senators call for review of Washington’s ties with Tanzania after deadly polls
The senators described the October 29 elections as a sham, citing vote manipulation, abductions, and state-sponsored suppression.
A group of US Senators is urging Washington to re-evaluate its bilateral relations with Tanzania following disputed elections that are estimated to have left scores dead.
In a statement, Senators Jim Risch and Jeanne Shaheen, chairperson and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, respectively, described the October 29 elections as a sham, citing vote manipulation, abductions, and state-sponsored suppression.
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"Tanzania's election was decided well before October 29. In response to these less-than-credible elections, Tanzanians took to the streets to display their deep frustration and anger. Unfortunately, instead of heeding calls for reforms and electoral transparency, the Government of Tanzania's heavy-handed security response resulted in the death of hundreds and the abduction and imprisonment of many more," they said in a statement.
The Senators also pointed to internet shutdowns that disrupted business operations and limited communications during the voting period, leaving citizens isolated.
They argued that the ruling party created an environment of fear that threatens both national and regional security. As a result, Tanzania experienced unprecedented levels of violence during the election.
"For decades, the US-Tanzania relationship has been built on shared democratic values, global security, economic prosperity, and strategic investment. Tanzania's continued pivot from the rule of law, reform, and good governance demands a genuine assessment of the US bilateral relationship with Tanzania," they urged.
Meanwhile, more countries continue to push for a probe into the killings that occurred during the voting period, as called for by the United Nations Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, on Tuesday.
Türk said evidence received by his office from multiple sources in Tanzania suggested that hundreds of protesters and civilians were killed, with an unknown number injured or detained..
"There are also disturbing reports that security forces have been seen removing bodies from streets and hospitals and taking them to undisclosed locations in an apparent attempt to conceal evidence. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights urged the Tanzanian authorities to investigate these grave allegations of human rights violations, fully and transparently, and to hold those responsible to account," he urged.
He further called for the unconditional release of all opposition figures arrested before the general election, including Chadema leader Tundu Lissu, and all other individuals arbitrarily detained since election day, many of whom, including children, have been charged with treason.
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