“Father, Forgive Them”: Tanzania’s Leader Frees Youth Protesters Facing Treason

DAR ES SALAAM — In a dramatic act of reconciliation, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has pardoned hundreds of young Tanzanians who faced treason charges following violent protests that marred the country’s October 29 general election.

ALSO READ: Tanzania Commission Links Post-Vote Bloodshed to Economic Interests in Natural Resources

Speaking before Parliament on Thursday, November 14, President Suluhu invoked scripture to justify her decision, quoting Jesus Christ’s words from the Gospel of Luke: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

The President directed prosecutors to drop charges against youths who joined the demonstrations out of ignorance or peer pressure, sparing them from potentially severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences.

From Viral Dance to Treason Charge

Among those expected to benefit from the pardon is Jenifer “Niffer” Jovin, a 26-year-old businesswoman and social media personality who became the face of the government crackdown. Niffer was arrested and charged with treason after participating in the “Nywinywi Challenge,” a viral TikTok dance trend that authorities linked to the protests.

She appeared before the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court in Dar es Salaam on November 7, facing multiple charges including two counts of treason, conspiracy to commit offenses involving infrastructure damage, and incitement during the general election.

More than 600 youths were arrested in total following the unrest, which erupted after opposition candidates were barred from running in the election.

A Nation in Mourning

In an emotional address, President Suluhu expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and injuries sustained during the October 29 violence. She led Parliament in a minute of silence for the victims and offered condolences to grieving families across the nation.

“We must heal as a country,” the President said, announcing the formation of an inquiry commission to investigate the deadly unrest and understand its root causes.

Disputed Claims of Foreign Interference

Meanwhile, a report released Thursday by the Tanzanian human rights organization CHARRG alleges that post-election violence was fueled by misinformation and interference from foreign nations seeking access to Tanzania’s natural resources. The claims remain unverified and have not been independently confirmed by international observers.

The presidential pardon marks a significant shift in tone from the government’s initial hardline response to the protests, signaling an attempt to turn the page on one of Tanzania’s most turbulent political episodes in recent years.

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