Travel Chaos:Passengers Stranded After Tanzania’s Disputed Vote

Hundreds of travelers were left stranded at airports across Tanzania this weekend. The disruption followed the announcement of official election results showing President Samia Suluhu Hassan won the disputed vote with an overwhelming majority exceeding 97%.

The widespread political turmoil led to immediate consequences for air travel. All domestic flights were canceled. Furthermore, many international passengers could not retrieve essential flight details due to a national unavailability of internet service.

Tourists Stranded as Flights Halt

A French tourist, Irvine René, spoke from Zanzibar Airport about the confusion. “We are traveling from Zanzibar to Paris,” René explained.

“But we cannot because the flight from Zanzibar to Nairobi is cancelled, so we are stuck here.”

The traveler reflected the uncertainty faced by many: “We do not know where to stay, where to sleep tonight. We do not know. We will see.”

International Warnings and Diplomatic Concern

Several countries have issued warnings against travel to Tanzania. The United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada all advised their citizens to reconsider travel following the election last week, which was marred by violence.

The opposition and critics widely viewed the election as a coronation rather than a genuine contest. This perception was amplified after President Hassan’s two main rivals were prevented from running: Tundu Lissu (Chadema) and Luhaga Mpina (ACT-Wazalendo). This left her virtually unopposed.

Violence and Rising Casualty Count

The election was immediately followed by demonstrations. Protesters took to the streets of major cities to object to the poll and disrupt the counting of votes. The military was deployed to help police suppress the riots. Internet connectivity remains intermittent, severely impacting travel and daily life.

Tanzanian authorities have not provided official figures on the number of people killed or injured. However, the United Nations has voiced deep concern. The UN Secretary-General urged all parties to “prevent further escalation” and called for restraint.

Reports suggest a high casualty count due to the response to the protests. Credible accounts indicate ten deaths were reported in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro towns.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the UK, Canada, and Norway cited “credible reports of a large number of fatalities and significant injuries.” The European Union also urged authorities to “exercise maximum restraint to preserve human lives.”

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