Renew Europe strongly denounces the severe crackdown on demonstrations and the widespread irregularities that have strongly undermined the credibility of Tanzania's October 29 presidential and parliamentary elections.
The electoral process was marred by systematic fraud that began months before voting day, creating an environment dominated by intimidation and systematic repression. Democratic principles have been systematically violated, with civic freedoms deliberately eroded and opposition movements subjected to persistent harassment.
An electoral contest cannot claim validity when principal opposition groups are forcibly silenced, when constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and free expression are suppressed, and when independent journalists are threatened and subjected to systematic censorship.
The arrest and prosecution of opposition figure Tundu Lissu on charges of high treason represents a particularly egregious assault on democratic norms. His detention, solely for advocating transparent and sincere electoral procedures, is particularly alarming. Renew Europe demands his immediate and unconditional release.
MEP Hilde Vautmans (Open-VLD, Belgium), Renew coordinator for Foreign Affairs stated :
“We stand in full solidarity with the people of Tanzania who are courageously demanding dignity, democracy, and accountability. Their movement is legitimate and peaceful. We demand a transparent and democratic process."
Hilde VautmansRenew Europe MEP, Belgium, Open Vlaamse Liberalen en Democraten
Barry Andrews (Fianna Fáil, Ireland), chair of the committee on Development emphasized :
"The Tanzanian electoral process has been fundamentally compromised by systematic irregularities and deliberate obstruction of international observers tasked with ensuring transparency. When national authorities prevent independent monitoring, it reveals its fear of scrutiny. The continued detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu is particularly outrageous—his sole 'offense' was demanding that authorities guarantee a transparent and honest vote. First and foremost, we call on the de facto president of Tanzania to release him unconditionally."
Barry AndrewsRenew Europe MEP, Ireland, Fianna Fáil Party
Renew Europe calls upon the European Union and other international partners to maintain support for human rights in Tanzania. We must respond decisively to defend democratic values and protect those standing against oppression.