On Monday, 2 November, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell called, on behalf of the EU, for dialogue in Tanzania and Zanzibar as the opposition cries that there was massive fraud during the presidential elections held on 28 October (see EUROPE 12588/30).
The vote saw the re-election of President John Magufuli, with 84% of votes, and his party, the Chama Cha Mapinduzi, won almost all of the 264 seats in play in Parliament. Several political opponents, including unsuccessful presidential candidate Tundu Lissu, were arrested on 2 November.
“The EU encourages an open, constructive and inclusive dialogue between the Government of Tanzania, opposition political parties and civil society”, emphasized the High Representative, adding that peaceful expression of opinions was essential for multiparty democracy and civic freedoms. By way of reminder, he stated that Tanzania has a “strong” record of stability, peaceful cohabitation, and tolerance among its people.
While Europeans considered that election day had been well organised and peaceful in many parts of the country, they lamented the disruption of social media before, during, and after election day; the claims made by opposition candidates that they were not given a level playing field during the electoral process; and the limited possibilities for election observation.
“Reports of irregularities in some districts are also raising concern. These serious allegations have an impact on the transparency and overall credibility of the process. They should be processed through legal means of redress,” stated the High Representative.
Pointing out tensions “with deadly violence, including allegations of excessive use of force by State organs”, in Zanzibar, the EU hoped that it would be possible to lay the foundation for a sustainable reconciliation among all stakeholders so as to contribute to long-lasting peace and stability in the archipelago. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)