The United States announced Thursday that it is reviewing relations with Tanzania over tightened repression of free speech, religious rights and disputed elections.
Rights groups report that more than 1,000 people were shot dead during three days of protests that followed the contested 29 October vote.
Opposition leaders and international observers have described the elections as fraudulent, deepening concern about Tanzania’s political direction and democratic credibility.
The US State Department said Tanzania’s recent actions raise grave doubts about the reliability of its government as a long-term partner.
Officials called the violence against civilians in the days surrounding the elections disturbing, warning that such abuses could reshape bilateral cooperation.
The statement also condemned Tanzania’s continued repression of religious freedom and free expression, alongside persistent barriers that limit US commercial investment.
Authorities in Tanzania have declined to release an official death toll from the unrest, urging foreign diplomats to avoid public comment on the crisis.
The government cancelled national day celebrations scheduled for 9 December as new protests were expected to erupt across several major cities.
Washington’s announcement followed a separate decision by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to impose visa restrictions on Nigeria over alleged anti-Christian persecution.
President Donald Trump warned last month that military action remained possible if killings in Nigeria continued without accountability or reform.
US officials now fear that a similar pattern of intolerance and instability may be taking root in Tanzania’s governing structures.
Diplomats say the review signals a significant shift in US policy toward a country once seen as a stable regional partner.
Human rights advocates argue that only transparent investigations and genuine political dialogue can restore confidence in Tanzania’s democratic future.
Washington insists its reassessment will proceed until clear steps are taken to protect civil liberties and prevent further bloodshed in the country.
