One year on, families seek justice after election violence
One year after Tanzania's deadly post-election violence, families are still seeking answers. A government inquiry recorded 518 deaths. DW research has documented apparent use of excessive force by security forces.
A year after election violence in Tanzania, families seek justice for their lost loved ones. Raha, a family member in Mwanza, Tanzania's second-largest city, hopes an apology from the government could be the first step towards justice. Despite the government's failures, the family remains hopeful for answers about their nephew's death during post-election protests.
The violence occurred following an election marred by the exclusion of the main opposition candidate, Tundu Lissu. The government-appointed Chande Commission found at least 518 people died from unnatural causes, while Human Rights Watch (HRW) believes the actual number could be higher. DW's investigation uncovered evidence of police misconduct, including instances where protesters were killed without reason and where protesters were beaten or degraded.
The police's specialized Field Force Unit, identified by red berets and riot gear, was seen in the footage. Human Rights Watch and the Chande Commission both called for further investigation, but the commission did not identify responsible security bodies. Tanzania's police guidelines prohibit the use of firearms unless absolutely necessary, yet DW's research found evidence of excessive force. The Chande Commission's findings are still pending, leaving families without the closure they seek.
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