Britain, Canada, and Norway voiced deep concern over rising tensions in Tanzania following protests that erupted after the country’s election.
In a joint statement issued on Friday, the three governments urged Tanzanian authorities to exercise “maximum restraint” and uphold the rights of assembly and free expression.
The appeal came after reports of clashes between security forces and demonstrators in several cities, sparking fears of a broader crackdown on dissent.
“We urge the authorities – as previously discussed with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – to act with maximum restraint and respect fundamental freedoms,” the statement read, underscoring the diplomatic community’s unease over the handling of the unrest.
The countries also condemned a pre-election climate marred by intimidation, abductions, and harassment targeting opposition members, journalists, and civil society groups.
Diplomats said such actions had cast a shadow over Tanzania’s democratic process, raising doubts about the fairness of the recent vote.
Observers warned that continued repression could deepen political divisions and isolate Tanzania from its international partners.
The statement from London, Ottawa, and Oslo serves as both a caution and a call for accountability in a nation once praised for its stability.
As the streets of Dar es Salaam and other cities remain tense, the world watches closely to see whether Tanzania’s leaders will choose dialogue over force.
