President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for renewed unity and reconciliation among Tanzanians, expressing regret over the violence that followed the October 29, 2025 General Election and urging citizens to protect the country’s long-standing peace.
Speaking at State House in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, April 23, 2026, after receiving an investigative report into the incidents, the Head of State said the events remain a painful chapter in the nation’s history.
“If it were possible to turn back time, we would wish that what happened in October 2025 never took place and that history could be rewritten to erase the stain we entered into as a nation,” she said.
President Samia noted that the consequences of the unrest were deeply felt across the country, as families lost loved ones and communities were shaken.
“Those who were hurt by that incident are us Tanzanians. We are the ones who lost our children, our relatives, our friends. The pain belongs to all of us,” she said, stressing that no one outside the country could feel the loss more than Tanzanians themselves.
She commended citizens for exercising restraint in the aftermath of the violence, despite what she described as strong mobilisation and messages circulating on social media that could have escalated tensions.
“I thank Tanzanians for not continuing with acts of violence, even though there was significant mobilisation on social media. You showed trust in your government as you waited for this report,” she said.
The President warned against forces that seek to divide the nation, urging citizens to remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding peace and stability.
“We must not allow ourselves to be divided or destabilised by enemies of our country. Our unity is our strength,” she emphasized.
Drawing from the philosophy of Tanzania’s founding leader, Julius Kambarage Nyerere, President Samia said unity and solidarity remain essential in protecting the country from political and economic exploitation.
“Mwalimu Nyerere taught us that a united nation cannot easily be exploited or controlled. Many resource-rich countries have been pushed into conflict to make it easier to exploit their wealth,” she said.
She added that conflicts have historically contributed to poverty across Africa, making it even more critical for Tanzania to preserve its cohesion.
The report handed to the President details the causes and impact of the October 2025 unrest, which occurred during and after the General Election. Its findings are expected to guide efforts aimed at promoting reconciliation, accountability, and long-term national stability.
President Samia concluded by urging Tanzanians to move forward together, anchored in unity and a shared commitment to peace.
