By 
In a significant diplomatic move, senior U.S. lawmakers have issued a strong condemnation of Tanzania’s recent electoral process, citing widespread irregularities and state-sponsored violence, and calling for a reassessment of the bilateral relationship.
U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Jim Risch (R-ID), the Ranking Member and Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, have released a joint official statement expressing grave concerns over the conduct of Tanzania’s general elections, demanding immediate reforms and signaling a potential shift in U.S.-Tanzania relations.
Elections “Marred” by Repression and Violence
The senators characterized the October 29th elections as “marred by state-sponsored political repression, targeted abductions and manipulation.” They asserted that the outcome was “decided well before” election day, pointing to a process they deemed “less than credible.”
The statement noted that Tanzanian citizens protested the results out of “deep frustration and anger.”
In response, the lawmakers accused the Government of Tanzania of a “heavy handed security response” that “resulted in the death of hundreds and the abduction and imprisonment of many more.”
Internet Shutdowns and Regional Instability
Highlighting the methods used during the period, the statement detailed an “unprecedented level of violence” and deliberate internet shutdowns. These actions, they argued, “disrupted business operations, limited communications, and left Tanzanian citizens isolated.”
The senators further warned that the ruling party has “created an environment of fear that challenges the security of the country and neighboring countries,” raising concerns about regional stability.
A Call for Reforms and a Threat to U.S. Relations
The core of the statement addressed the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
“For decades, the U.S.-Tanzania relationship has been built on shared democratic values, global security, economic prosperity and strategic investment,” the lawmakers stated.
However, they concluded that “Tanzania’s continued pivot from the rule of law, reform and good governance demands a genuine assessment of the U.S. bilateral relationship with Tanzania,” indicating that a formal review of diplomatic and economic ties is now on the table.
