President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced on Friday the formation of a commission to investigate killings during last month’s election protests. Speaking in her first parliamentary address since the vote, she said the commission would examine causes of unrest and guide reconciliation efforts across the nation.
The move follows calls from U.N. human rights chief Volker Türk for an investigation into the deaths and alleged evidence concealment. Protests erupted on October 29 after opposition candidates were barred from running, with young demonstrators decrying the exclusion from the polls.
President Hassan won the election with more than 97% of votes, while hundreds of protesters were arrested, some facing treason charges. “As a mother, I forgive those who joined the protests under peer pressure,” Hassan said, ordering the release of certain detained youths.
The president also acknowledged Chadema party demands for constitutional reforms as essential for meaningful dialogue and national reconciliation to succeed. Hassan pledged to start a constitutional reform process within her administration’s first 100 days, responding to opposition calls for electoral change.
Chadema leader Tundu Lissu remains imprisoned on treason charges, with his trial yet to resume following the election unrest, highlighting ongoing political tension. His deputy, John Heche, was arrested on election day but released three weeks later, reflecting selective leniency amid broader detentions.
The inquiry commission aims to uncover facts, foster accountability, and set the stage for healing in a deeply divided Tanzanian political landscape.