Pope Leo XIV calls for peace amid rising violence in Tanzania
Pope Leo XIV has appealed for peace and dialogue in Tanzania following reports of violent clashes that erupted after the recent national elections.
In an X post on Sunday, November 2, 2025, the Pontiff expressed deep concern over the unrest that has left many victims, urging Tanzanians to shun violence and embrace unity.
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“May we also #PrayTogether for #Tanzania, where, following the recent elections, violent clashes have broken out, leaving many victims. I urge everyone to avoid all forms of violence and to follow the path of dialogue,” Pope Leo XIV wrote.
The Pope’s call comes amid growing international concern over the post-election crisis, with humanitarian groups warning of rising casualties and displacement in affected regions.
Pope Leo XIV emphasised that peace and mutual understanding are the only viable paths forward.
“Dialogue, not division, must guide the nation at this critical time,” he said.
Also watch: Amnesty International sounds alarm over escalating repression in Tanzania.
Alar, over crisis
Incidentally, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reports that Tanzania is experiencing shortages of food, fuel, and money after protests erupted during the country’s General Elections.
In its latest update on Sunday, November 2, 2025, FCDO warned of a significant shortage of food, fuel, and cash services, which it says has disrupted livelihoods, leaving thousands vulnerable.
“FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Tanzania. This is due to disruption and unrest following the 29 October election. There are shortages of food, fuel, and cash, compounded by the lack of internet services,” the United Kingdom (UK) government warned.
According to the UK Embassy in Tanzania, the shortage was further exacerbated by the Tanzanian government’s decision to shut down the internet, blocking access to information and crucial services.
Meanwhile, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been declared the winner of the country’s disputed presidential elections with about 98 per cent of the vote, after leading rivals were excluded from the race.
The final result announced by the electoral commission on Saturday, November 1, 2025, showed Hassan had won 97.66 percent of the vote, dominating every constituency.
Hassan, who took power in 2021 after the sudden death of her predecessor, John Magufuli, appeared at an event in the administrative capital, Dodoma, to receive the winner’s certificate from electoral authorities.
In a speech afterwards, she highlighted that Tanzanians voted overwhelmingly for a female leader and said the election was now over.
“it is time to unite our country and not destroy what we’ve built over more than six decades. We will take all actions and involve all security agencies to ensure the country is peaceful,” she said.
