By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
11, November 2025 - The United Nations has called on Tanzania’s government to urgently investigate the killings and other serious human rights violations linked to the country’s October 29 general elections.
In a statement released on Tuesday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed deep concern over reports of widespread violence, including the killing of protesters and opposition supporters, and the alleged removal of bodies by security forces to unknown locations.
“Reports of families desperately searching everywhere for their loved ones, moving from one police station to another and from one hospital to another, are heartbreaking,” Türk said. “Authorities must reveal the fate and whereabouts of the missing and return the bodies of those killed so they can be buried with dignity.”
According to information gathered by the UN Human Rights Office from different parts of Tanzania, hundreds of people may have been killed and many others injured or detained during and after the election. The UN said it has not been able to independently verify the number of victims because of the tense security situation and an internet shutdown imposed after voting ended.
Türk described reports that security forces have been seen removing bodies from the streets and hospitals as “disturbing,” saying such actions appear to be attempts to hide evidence. He called on the Tanzanian authorities to conduct a full, transparent investigation and hold all those responsible to account.
The UN official also urged the government to release all opposition figures and civilians detained before and after the election, including Chadema party leader Tundu Lissu. More than 150 people, including minors, are reported to have been arrested and charged with treason under unclear legal grounds.
“It is essential that those detained are brought before a court promptly and allowed to challenge the legality of their arrest,” Türk said, emphasizing that every detainee must be guaranteed due process under international human rights law.
The international community, including human rights groups and regional organizations, has echoed the UN’s call, urging Tanzania to protect citizens’ rights and ensure justice for the victims of the post-election violence.
