The United Nations has called on Tanzanian authorities to launch an independent investigation into alleged killings that occurred during violent post election protests as hundreds of citizens face treason charges in the aftermath of last month’s unrest.
According to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, reports emerging from Tanzania suggest that a significant number of people were killed or went missing following demonstrations contesting the results of the October 29, 2025, general elections.
“I am deeply alarmed by the scale of the reported violence and the allegations that bodies of victims have been concealed from their families,” Türk said in a statement released on Tuesday.
“We urge the government to ensure transparency, allow independent investigations, and respect the right of families to bury their loved ones in dignity.”
Türk’s remarks came amid disturbing accounts of mass arrests, disappearances and restricted media access, following days of protests sparked by opposition claims of electoral fraud.
Several civil society organisations and witnesses have reported a communications blackout, raising fears that the full extent of the violence remains hidden. The opposition party Chadema alleges that the death toll could be as high as 2,000, though the government has not confirmed any official figures.
The UN rights office said it had received credible reports suggesting that security forces used live ammunition against protesters and called for full accountability for those responsible.
“All victims and their families deserve truth and justice,” Türk emphasised, adding that international law obliges Tanzania to investigate serious human-rights violations and prosecute those responsible.
In a move that has drawn further criticism, Tanzanian prosecutors have charged hundreds of individuals with treason for their alleged involvement in the demonstrations. Among those targeted are opposition politicians, civil society leaders and faith-based figures accused of mobilising unrest.
Human rights defenders have described the mass charges as politically motivated and warned that they could deepen social divisions.
While government officials have yet to issue a detailed response to the UN’s demands, authorities have maintained that the arrests were necessary to “protect national security and public order.”
Regional observers, however, say the incident threatens to strain Tanzania’s democratic reputation and investor confidence if the allegations remain unaddressed.
The UN has urged the government to lift restrictions on information access, ensure the safety of detainees and cooperate fully with independent human rights monitors.