(MENAFN) Authorities in Tanzania have lifted the night-time curfew in Dar es Salaam, imposed last Wednesday after violent protests following the country’s presidential election. Life is gradually returning to normal in the main city, though challenges persist.

During the unrest, the internet was cut nationwide, shops closed amid shortages and price hikes, schools shut, and public transport was suspended. On Tuesday, some shops reopened and traffic resumed, though long queues remain at fuel stations. Families continue to search for or bury relatives killed in clashes between security forces and opposition supporters who rejected the vote results.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in on Monday after winning the election with 98% of the vote. Observers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) noted that the election did not fully meet democratic standards. Opposition leaders were unable to participate: Tundu Lissu remains in detention on treason charges he denies, while Luhaga Mpina was disqualified on technical grounds.

Internet access is being gradually restored, though social media remains restricted, and authorities have warned against sharing protest images. Chadema, Lissu’s party, claims that at least 500 people died in the violence, with prior reports suggesting over 800 fatalities. The UN human rights office reported credible evidence of at least 10 deaths across three cities. The government has not released official casualty figures.

Chadema also reported that deputy chairman John Heche went missing after being taken from a police station in Dodoma. Witnesses say the vehicles transporting him sped off, leaving his family and party officials unable to track his whereabouts. Authorities have not commented on his status.

MENAFN05112025000045017640ID1110297710