Tanzania election victims await justice one year later
Protests following the October 29 election were suppressed by security forces, leaving many traumatised.
One year after Tanzania's October 29 election, victims of the violence still await justice. President Samia Suluhu Hassan won with 98 percent of the vote after most opposition parties were excluded, leading to protests that security forces suppressed. Rights groups and the opposition claim thousands died, while a government commission reported 518 deaths.
Twaha Bomeza, 61, lost an eye and four teeth to shrapnel during a shootout on election day in Dar es Salaam. He requires surgery for an internal eye wound, suffers shortness of breath, and constant headaches. Bomeza stated his blood was spilled but no action has followed a year later.
The Catholic Church held masses on Thursday to honour the victims, and the main opposition party, Chadema, announced a seven-day mourning period. Government critics continue to face fear of abduction, arbitrary arrest, or charges of treason and terrorism.
Why it mattersVictims of election violence, like Twaha Bomeza, are still suffering physical injuries and awaiting medical care a year later.