In a statement released by his spokesperson, Secretary-General António Guterres deplored the loss of life and offered its condolences to the families of the victims.
The Secretary-General called for “a thorough and impartial investigation into all allegations of excessive use of force», urging the Tanzanian authorities to demonstrate responsibility and transparency in the management of post-election unrest.
According to the UN human rights office (OHCHR), credible reports indicate that at least ten protesters were killed as security forces used guns and tear gas against demonstrators in urban areas, including the cities of Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga and Morogoro.
Internet restrictions
The OHCHR also reported that a nationwide curfew is in effect while internet access appears to have been largely restricted since election day.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights urged authorities to quickly restore internet service and allow citizens to fully enjoy their rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. Protesters were also urged to demonstrate peacefully.
“Reduced communications will only further undermine public confidence in the electoral process,” the office said.
The post-election violence comes a day after election campaigns were marred by allegations of arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition figures, including party leader Chadema and his deputy.
The move followed reported forced disappearances of dissidents, including the country’s former ambassador to Cuba.
Free the detainees
“All those arbitrarily detained must be released immediately and unconditionally and those who are lawfully detained must be afforded due process and the right to a fair trial,” OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango said at a press briefing Friday in Geneva.
“We urge the authorities to ensure prompt, impartial and effective investigations into all cases of election-related violence, and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” he added.
Publicado anteriormente en Almouwatin.
