• Samia Suluhu Hassan sworn in as Tanzanian President amid violence and protests.
• Opposition claims hundreds were killed during post-election unrest.
• Internet blackout and heavy security presence hampers information flow.
• Chadema party calls election results a "sham" and demands new elections.
• International reactions include calls for dialogue and an end to violence.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in for a second term on November 3, 2025, during a ceremony held at a military base in Dodoma, absent of public attendance due to unrest following a disputed election. The electoral commission declared her the winner with nearly 98% of the vote, despite widespread protests after key opposition candidates were barred from running, according to Africanews and Le Monde.

The election has been met with fierce backlash from the Chadema party, which claims that "no genuine election took place in Tanzania" and alleges that as many as 800 people were killed during the protests that erupted, with reports of excessive police force being used. The opposition's statements include graphic claims of bodies piled in the streets and chaotic scenes during the voting process, according to Al Jazeera and NPR.

The government, however, has denied allegations of violence and excessive force, with the Foreign Minister stating there are "no official figures" on fatalities among protesters. Amid the unrest, a nationwide internet blackout has been reported, affecting the dissemination of information and complicating efforts to verify reports of violence, as noted by South China Morning Post and NPR.

Hassan has responded to these challenges by urging "unity and solidarity" among Tanzanians, stating that her government is investigating to ascertain the events surrounding the protests. Reports suggest that schools and colleges have been closed, with significant restrictions on public transport following the violence, according to Le Monde and South China Morning Post.

The international community, including Pope Leo XIV, has called for dialogue and an end to violence in Tanzania. Analysts suggest that the government's crackdown on opposition and handling of the elections reflects a continuation of authoritarian practices, since Hassan's ascension to power following the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli. This atmosphere has led many to question the legitimacy of her electoral success as calls for reform grow louder, according to Africanews, South China Morning Post, and Al Jazeera.