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Tanzanian Diaspora Demands ICC Action Against President Hassan

THE HAGUE — Tanzanian diaspora communities have reportedly organized demonstrations in The Hague, calling on the International Criminal Court to investigate President Samia Suluhu Hassan over the deadly suppression of post-election protests.

Also read: Kenyan Nationals Allegedly Targeted in Tanzania Post-Election Crackdown

The mobilization follows Tanzania’s disputed October 29 election, where Hassan secured 98% of the vote after her main rival was charged with treason and other opposition candidates were barred from running.

Disputed Death Toll

The scale of violence remains contested. Opposition party Chadema claims approximately 700 to 800 people were killed by security forces, while the United Nations has confirmed at least 10 deaths. The Tanzanian government has rejected opposition figures and maintains no official count exists.

An internet blackout imposed by authorities has prevented independent verification of casualty numbers.

Coordinated Advocacy Campaign

Beyond street protests, Tanzanian expatriates across Europe and the United States have launched embassy demonstrations and organized daily Twitter Spaces sessions to coordinate support for protesters. The opposition has formally requested ICC and UN investigations into what it characterizes as mass killings of unarmed demonstrators.

The ICC has not issued any statement regarding potential investigations. Tanzania ratified the Rome Statute in 2002, which theoretically allows the Court’s prosecutor to initiate investigations, though no formal process has begun.

Government Response

President Hassan defended the crackdown during her November 3 inauguration, stating that “when it comes to the security of Tanzania, there is no debate – we must use all available security avenues to ensure the country remains safe.”

The government has maintained a comprehensive internet shutdown since the election, cutting access to social media platforms and severely limiting information flow from the country.

The United States and European Union have urged Tanzania to restore internet access and respect civil liberties, though neither has explicitly called for ICC intervention.