Dar es Salaam, TanzaniaApril 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, today received the report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the violence and breaches of peace that occurred during and after the October 2025 general elections. The report marks a shift from national reflection to decisive action for recovery, reform, and unity.
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In her address, the President acknowledged the scale of the impact, resulting in approximately 518 deaths, over 2,390 injuries, and property damage estimated at more than 125 billion Tanzanian Shillings. She emphasized that these losses have had profound and lasting consequences for families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
The President described the Commission’s work as a comprehensive national diagnosis, which, according to the Commission’s Chair, was based on evidence from 1,300 witnesses across 202 affected locations, hundreds of sworn affidavits, and thousands of citizen submissions.
“The Commission studied the factors that affected us and provided a remedy and guidance. Our task now is to apply that remedy effectively. Sometimes, the remedy may be difficult, but it must be accepted if we are to heal.” President Samia stressed that the nation must now act with discipline and accountability to prevent a recurrence.
The President reiterated that Tanzania’s future lies in the hands of its citizens and called for unity and shared responsibility in rebuilding the nation.
“The destiny of Tanzania is in the hands of Tanzanians themselves,” she said, while also calling on religious leaders to actively support national healing and reconciliation efforts.
The Commission’s Chair, former Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, noted that the report is the result of a 153-day nationwide investigation covering 11 regions and 21 districts, along with extensive stakeholder engagement.
“The report reflects the collective intent of the nation to heal wounds, ensure accountability where necessary, and most importantly, to learn and move forward.”
He added that while many victims expressed pain, citizens demonstrated a strong and consistent desire for reconciliation and unity.
“Those who engaged with the Commission made it clear that what happened does not reflect the true character of Tanzania,” he said.
Personally, the President reaffirmed her commitment to lead this period with courage and vigilance, while calling for collective effort.
“I will take on this responsibility with courage, confidence, and caution. But we must work together. Do not leave this burden to me alone.”
She concluded by urging Tanzanians to learn from the experience and move forward with renewed unity and purpose.
Editor’s Note
This is the seventh Presidential Commission of Inquiry since independence. The Commission, chaired by former Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, was established on November 18, 2025, and began its work on November 20, 2025.
The Commission conducted an evidence-based investigation nationwide using qualitative and quantitative methods to establish facts and recommend measures for national healing, accountability, and long-term stability.