Tanzania's Catholic Bishops Demand Independent Inquiry into Election-Related Killings
In a powerful statement, the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) has called for an independent inquiry, involving both national and international stakeholders, into the brutal killings that occurred during the October 29, 2025, election protests. The statement, read by TEC President Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, begins with heartfelt condolences for the victims and a strong condemnation of the killings. It also provides a detailed analysis of the protests, emphasizing the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression.
The bishops, comprising 41 members, highlighted three primary causes of the protests. Firstly, they cited incidents of abduction, killings, and physical harm to citizens, which they deemed contrary to Article 14 of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania. The security organs and 'Unknown Assailants' have been accused of violating the right to life, with abductions and disappearances becoming a persistent trend since 2024, intensifying as the election neared.
Secondly, the Bishops pointed to the lack of genuine democracy in the leadership selection process. The 2025 election marked the first time in Tanzania's multiparty election history that the main opposition party was excluded from the ballot, and the second-largest opposition party faced legal hurdles in fielding a presidential candidate. This absence of fair and transparent electoral competition has been a concern since 2016, according to the statement.
Lastly, the Bishops identified the absence of platforms for citizens to voice their concerns as a significant factor. They noted that the protests were fueled by the lack of a safe space for citizens to report violations of their fundamental rights and seek resolution. The TEC also criticized the excessive use of force during the protests, including the deployment of military-grade weapons, which they deemed unnecessary and brutal.
The statement comes amidst widespread condemnation from local, regional, and international organizations, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The TEC expressed deep concern over reports of injured individuals being denied medical services and called for the bodies of the deceased to be returned to their families. They also issued eight recommendations, including the condemnation of killings, accountability for security officials, an independent investigation, and the unconditional release of those detained.
The Bishops' statement concludes with a call for Tanzanians to continue praying for the nation's justice, peace, and healing, and it comes a day after the Tanzanian president pledged to establish an inquiry into the events, marking a significant step towards national reconciliation.
