Tanzania Election Protests Shake Main City Amid Election Chaos

Advanced | November 4, 2025

✨ 혼자서 기사를 소리 내어 읽거나 튜터를 따라 각 단락을 반복해서 읽으세요. 레벨...

A Turbulent Vote and the Outbreak of Protests – Tanzania Election Protests

On October 29, 2025, the East African nation’s largest city, Dar es Salaam, became the focal point of uproar as voters went to the polls in the general election. The incumbent Samia Suluhu Hassan, seeking her first full term, has drawn strong expectations from voters who believe she will clinch the presidency, with some critics calling it a near-certainty. Yet, reports claim that election officials and police have excluded and arrested key opposition figures (The Guardian). This unrest highlights the ongoing Tanzania election protests that have drawn global attention.

Curfew, Internet Blackouts, and Rising Tensions

Tanzania’s police announced a curfew in Dar es Salaam and imposed significant internet disruptions as crowds clashed with security forces. Witnesses reported gunshots and tear gas used to disperse protesters who blocked roads, burned property, and voiced anger at what many called a “non-competitive” election. (Reuters)
The Tanzania election protests continued through the weekend, highlighting citizens’ frustration with the electoral process.

Political Fallout and Business Implications

While President Hassan and her ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) maintain that the vote is lawful, opposition leaders have rejected the outcome as illegitimate. In the capital and beyond, the unrest is raising alarms — not just politically, but also economically. Dar es Salaam is a regional commercial hub, and disruptions there ripple through trade, logistics, and regional markets. (Reuters)

What’s Coming Next?

Analysts suggest the unrest could mark a turning point for Tanzania: either deeper repression or a recalibration of governance under international pressure. Companies with exposure to the region — supply chains, export routes, or investment in infrastructure — should watch closely for changes in stability, regulation, and public sentiment. (AP News)

Vocabulary

Uproar (noun) – a loud disturbance or strong public reaction.
- Example: “The election triggered uproar in Dar es Salaam.”
Marred (verb) – spoiled or damaged something.
- Example: “The election was marred by allegations of unfairness.”
Clinch (verb) – to finally get or achieve something.
- Example: “Hassan is widely expected to clinch the presidency.”
Disruptions (noun) – disturbances that interrupt.
- Example: “Internet disruptions hampered communication on election day.”
Illegitimate (adjective) – not recognized as lawful or valid.
- Example: “Opposition leaders called the outcome illegitimate.”
Commercial hub (noun) – a central place for business and trade.
- Example: “Dar es Salaam is a commercial hub for East Africa.”
Repercussions (noun) – consequences or effects of an action.
- Example: “The protests may have regional repercussions.”
Calibrate (verb) – to adjust or align something.
- Example: “Governments may need to calibrate their response to unrest.”
Exposure (noun) – being subject to a risk.
- Example: “Investors with exposure to Tanzania face higher risks now.”
Sentiment (noun) – a general feeling or attitude.
- Example: “Public sentiment toward the election was deeply divided.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What triggered the Tanzania election protests, and how did the authorities respond?
Why did the election spark such strong reactions in Tanzania?
What are some of the business and economic implications of the unrest?
How might this election affect Tanzania’s international relationships?
What could be the next steps for the government and opposition?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

How significant is political stability for foreign investment in a country like Tanzania?
What role should international observers play in national elections?
How might internet blackouts and curfews impact everyday business operations?
Should companies have contingency plans for political unrest in emerging markets?
What ethical considerations arise when governments restrict opposition and media during elections?

Related Idiom

“The writing is on the wall” — a sign that something (usually negative) is soon going to happen.
Example: “With the bans on opposition parties and sweeping victory expected, the writing was on the wall for a contested election.”

📢 Want more fun English tips like this? 👉 Sign up for the All About English Mastery Newsletter! Click here to join us!

Want to finally Master English but don’t have time for long lessons? Mastering English for Busy Professionals is designed for you — short, smart, and effective.

Follow our YouTube Channel @All_About_English for weekly lessons and quick English hacks!

This article was inspired by: Reuters, The Guardian, and AP News.