Why Tanzania is at Loggerheads with the International Community

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 6 December 2025 - The United States has made it clear that it is increasingly concerned about the trajectory of governance under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration in Tanzania, particularly in the aftermath of the 29 October 2025 general election.

U.S. authorities have expressed alarm over reports of widespread human rights violations, including the suppression of political opposition, harassment of critics, arbitrary arrests, and the use of excessive force against civilians.

They have highlighted that these actions not only erode democratic institutions but also threaten the safety of American citizens, investors, and other international stakeholders in the country.

The U.S. review of its relationship with Tanzania underscores a growing frustration with the government’s handling of political dissent and civil liberties.

Officials have described the ongoing repression of free speech and religious freedom, coupled with obstacles to investment, as “grave concerns” that cast doubt on the reliability of the Tanzanian government as a partner.

By issuing this warning, Washington is signaling that continued violations could have tangible consequences, including reduced cooperation on security, economic, and development fronts.

These concerns coincide with mounting pressure from the European Union, which has called for the immediate release of all political detainees in Tanzanian prisons.

The joint Western envoys statement noted that the detention of opposition figures and activists violates fundamental rights and hampers efforts to uphold democratic norms.

European officials stressed that meaningful engagement with Tanzania requires accountability, transparency, and respect for civil and political liberties, echoing many of the points raised by U.S. authorities.

Reports indicate that in the run-up to and following the elections, security forces responded to protests with excessive force, resulting in deaths, injuries, and widespread intimidation.

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Media outlets and independent observers have documented the harassment of opposition parties, censorship of independent media, and restrictions on public assembly.

Both the United States and the EU have framed these actions as part of a broader pattern of repression that undermines the legitimacy of the electoral process and threatens regional stability.

The twin signals from Washington and Brussels place Tanzania at a diplomatic crossroads.

The U.S. review and the EU’s call for the release of political detainees send an unmistakable message that international partners are closely monitoring the government’s actions and that continued violations will carry consequences.

For President Hassan, the response to these concerns will likely define Tanzania’s diplomatic and economic prospects in the months ahead.

Transparent investigations into abuses, the restoration of civil liberties, and the release of political prisoners are now seen as essential steps to restore trust with the international community.

In sum, the United States is not “sitting pretty” with the current administration because it perceives a sustained pattern of human rights violations and political repression.

Combined with the EU’s advocacy for the release of detainees, these international pressures highlight the urgent need for the Tanzanian government to demonstrate accountability, uphold democratic norms, and reassure foreign partners that the rule of law and fundamental freedoms are respected.

The coming weeks are critical in determining whether Tanzania can reset its relations with key allies or risk further isolation and diminished influence on the global stage.