Tanzania's President Samia orders probe into post-election violence, directs DPP to drop charges against arrested youths
Addressing the 13th Parliament on November 14, 2025, President Samia expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and disruption caused by the unrest. She called on Members of Parliament and guests to observe a one-minute silence in honour of the victims.
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced that her government will establish a special commission to investigate the unrest that erupted during the October 29, 2025, general election, which left several people dead, others injured, and caused property damage.
She said the probe will identify the root causes of the disturbances and guide efforts to restore peace, according to The Citizen.
More To Read
- Tanzanian parliament approves Mwigulu Nchemba as new prime minister
- 75 per cent of Kilimanjaro’s natural plants have been wiped out – and climate change isn’t the biggest threat
- Eight Kenyans released, three remain detained in Tanzania after election unrest - Mudavadi
- Over 300 Tanzanians face treason charges as Chadema denies holding talks with Samia's gov't
- President Samia appoints six MPs as CCM tightens grip on parliament
- Tanzania's Chadema party officials including deputy chair John Heche freed on bail after weeks in custody
Addressing the 13th Parliament on November 14, 2025, President Samia expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and disruption caused by the unrest. She called on Members of Parliament and guests to observe a one-minute silence in honour of the victims.
"Let us pray that God receives the souls of those who died in the unrest of October 29. I was personally deeply saddened by that incident, and I extend my condolences to all families who lost their loved ones. May God grant them rest, and we pray for the swift recovery of the injured," said President Samia.
She also offered prayers for those who lost property, wishing them strength and resilience to recover.
"The Government has taken the step of forming a commission to investigate what transpired so that we may understand the root cause of the problem. Its findings will guide our dialogue towards restoring understanding and peace," she said.
President Samia further directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to withdraw charges against youths who participated in the protests, particularly those who joined simply by following the crowd. She explained that review of demonstration footage showed many were unaware of the implications of their actions, influenced only by excitement or peer pressure.
"As a mother and guardian of this Nation, I direct law-enforcement agencies, particularly the Director of Public Prosecutions, to assess the magnitude of the offences committed by our young people. For those who appear to have simply followed the crowd without any intention to commit a crime, their charges should be withdrawn," she said.
Samia also appealed to young Tanzanians to embrace reconciliation, inclusivity, self-discipline, and unity, emphasising that peace and political stability are the foundations of the nation.
“If we, your parents, had been tempted to do what you have done today, this country would not have achieved the progress you see before you. I strongly urge you, my Tanzanian sons and daughters: this nation belongs to you. Whatever challenges you face, never allow yourselves to be incited to destroy your own country,” she said.
Further, the President announced that her government intends to establish a fully fledged Ministry dedicated to Youth Affairs.
The move is part of a broader effort to address challenges facing young people across the country, providing focused and specialised attention that cannot be effectively handled under a department with multiple competing mandates.
Presidential Advisers on Youth Affairs will also be appointed within the Office of the President to offer direct counsel on youth matters, including opportunities, needs, and obstacles.
"We have reflected on the need to have a complete Ministry that will deal with Youth Affairs. We have resolved to create a full Ministry instead of retaining a department burdened with many responsibilities," President Samia told the August House.
President Samia urged all political parties and citizens to come together to reflect on past mistakes and correct them, while calling on government officials at all levels to engage closely with communities and address their concerns.
Top Stories Today
