Tanzania has responded to growing international concern over the unrest that followed its October 29 elections, calling on foreign governments and organisations to allow its domestic investigations to take their course.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, the government said it had “taken note” of concerns from more than 20 countries and institutions, including Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ghana, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union, the United Nations Human Rights Council, and the Thabo Mbeki Foundation.
The statement comes after a meeting between Tanzania’s Foreign Minister and the Diplomatic Corps in Dar es Salaam on 28 November, which officials described as a “candid engagement” that preceded the international statements.
Tanzania emphasised that a national Commission of Inquiry has been set up to investigate post-election violence. The government said the commission’s findings will provide clarity on the “unfortunate events” and form a basis for “future constructive engagement.”
While acknowledging the importance of international support for democracy, Tanzania stressed that it seeks partnerships on equal terms.
“Tanzania remains committed to constructive international cooperation for peace and development,” the statement read, urging stakeholders to trust national institutions to handle the situation.
The press release concluded with reassurances to development partners, highlighting Tanzania’s “readiness and commitment to continue engagement on all matters of mutual interest.”
