The Government of Ghana has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating political and human rights situation in Tanzania following the East African nation’s general elections held on October 29, 2025, and has called for transparent and impartial investigations into post-election violence that has claimed lives and injured many.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Ghana condemned the violent clashes between security forces and protesters, describing the loss of civilian lives as “unwarranted” and extending condolences to bereaved families while wishing speedy recovery to the injured.
“The post-election environment has unfortunately been characterised by significant security developments, including loss of lives, street clashes and violent stand-offs between the security forces and protesters, with considerable implications for the long-term stability of the country,” the statement read.
Ghana welcomed assurances from Tanzanian authorities to address impunity through accountability and justice but urged the government to ensure security forces strictly adhere to international human rights standards, particularly in protecting the rights of peaceful protesters.
The statement further called on all stakeholders — authorities, political parties, civil society, protesters, and security forces — to uphold the rule of law, respect democratic principles, and safeguard civic space.
Aligning itself with statements from the African Union, the Commonwealth, and the United Nations, Ghana specifically endorsed the call by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for maximum restraint and the conduct of “transparent and credible impartial investigations” into the violence.
“A fair, inclusive and equitable process anchored in the rule of law will provide the victims, including those detained and the alleged perpetrators, access to due process guaranteed under international human rights law,” the Ministry emphasised.
As a current member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Ghana urged the international community to offer Tanzania all necessary support to restore calm and ensure justice.
The October 29 elections saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) secure a landslide victory amid opposition claims of widespread irregularities, vote rigging, and intimidation. Main opposition party Chadema and its presidential candidate Tundu Lissu rejected the results, triggering protests that were met with a heavy security crackdown, internet restrictions, and arrests of opposition figures — developments that have drawn sharp criticism from regional and international observers.