Ole Sankok: Tanzanian election results reflect voice of God

East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Ole Sankok has said the outcome of Tanzania’s controversial elections reflects the voice of God, urging that the opinions of all citizens, including protesting youth, be respected.

Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Sankok explained that the voice of the people is the voice of God, emphasising that even demonstrations by Gen Z in Tanzania form part of the democratic process and must be acknowledged.

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He said that understanding citizens’ votes and protests is essential to gauge the collective will of the people.

Majority decides

Sankok elaborated on how the voice of the people expresses itself: “The voice of the people during an election is their vote. Every voice counts. Eventually, according to democracy, the majority will have won. The minority will have lost. But still, their voice has been there. That is the voice of God.”

He said that while the majority determines the outcome of an election, the concerns and expressions of the minority cannot be ignored.

Sankok clarified that recognising the majority’s decision does not erase or diminish the voices of those who feel disenfranchised.

Also watch: Samia Suluhu appeals for calm, calls on protesters to embrace dialogue

He said that the democratic process requires the voice of the people to be carefully gauged, ensuring that all perspectives, both from the majority and minority, are considered.

He highlighted that even when authorities limit participation, citizens’ expressions through protests, voting, and public debate remain valid indicators of the public will.

He explained that democracy works when the collective voice of citizens is acknowledged, with the majority ultimately guiding decisions while the minority maintains the right to dissent.

Sankok emphasised that the voice of God, as expressed through people’s votes and demonstrations, cannot be dismissed or ignored, as it represents both participation and accountability in governance.

Election marred with controversy

His remarks come against the backdrop of Tanzania’s elections, which were marred by controversy after key opposition leaders, including Tundu Lissu, were barred from contesting.

Protests erupted in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and border towns such as Tunduma, where demonstrators clashed with police, leading to deaths and injuries.

Authorities also imposed a nationwide internet blackout, disrupting communication and access to information. Despite this, Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with nearly 98% of the vote, becoming the first woman elected president of Tanzania.