Keypoints:
- EU demands immediate halt to Tanzania funding
- Mass violence and arrests condemned by MEPs
- Detention of Tundu Lissu at centre of concerns
THE European Parliament has called on the European Commission to suspend all direct funding to the Tanzanian government after what lawmakers described as a brutal crackdown that followed the country’s disputed October 2025 elections. The demand was included in a resolution adopted on Thursday with 539 votes in favour and 27 abstentions, according to AFP reporting.
In the resolution, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) denounced Tanzanian security forces’ excessive use of force against protesters challenging the election results. Reports from civil society groups and local witnesses suggest thousands were killed or injured in clashes, with disturbing allegations of mass graves in several regions. Lawmakers argued that the violence reflected systematic repression of civil and political rights.
Opposition leader’s detention sparks condemnation
A central focus of the resolution is the detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who was barred from contesting the poll and later arrested on treason charges. Treason carries the death penalty under Tanzanian law, further intensifying international concern.
MEPs called for Lissu’s immediate and unconditional release, describing him as a symbol of the government’s efforts to silence critical voices. According to the resolution, Lissu is being held in harsh conditions and has been denied consistent access to legal counsel. The European Parliament warned that his imprisonment underscores the government’s hardline stance and its unwillingness to tolerate dissent.
Crackdown targets media, internet and public freedoms
The resolution also criticised the Tanzanian authorities for imposing curfews, shutting down the internet and restricting media coverage during the post-election unrest. Lawmakers said these measures prevented citizens from accessing crucial information at a time of national crisis.
Civil society groups have documented widespread arrests, abductions and disappearances of activists and opposition figures. MEPs highlighted cases such as that of Humphrey Polepole, whose whereabouts remain unknown, and warned that enforced disappearances are being used to intimidate communities and stifle political engagement.
EU funds to be redirected to civil society
MEPs urged the European Commission to halt direct financial support to the Tanzanian authorities and instead channel assistance towards civil society organisations, independent journalists and human rights defenders. The EU has long been one of Tanzania’s major development partners, but lawmakers stressed that funding must not reinforce state institutions implicated in abuses.
European lawmakers also called on the Commission to consider targeted sanctions against individuals responsible for violations linked to the election and the ensuing crackdown. They argued that accountability measures are vital if Tanzania is to restore credibility and trust in its governance structures.
Election criticised by regional observers
The October 2025 elections were widely criticised by observers from the African Union and the Southern African Development Community. Both missions cited serious irregularities, limited transparency and the exclusion of key opposition figures from the ballot. The European Union was not invited to send an observation mission, leaving it reliant on reports from other bodies and domestic monitors.
According to these assessments, the ruling party’s victory was secured in an environment marked by intimidation, arbitrary restrictions and a lack of open political competition. These factors have heightened calls for an independent review of the electoral process.
MEPs demand African-led inquiry
Lawmakers pressed for an African-led international commission of inquiry to investigate alleged killings, torture and disappearances. They argued that only a credible, continent-driven investigation can uncover the full scale of abuses and lay the groundwork for justice and accountability.
MEPs emphasised that Tanzania must uphold regional and international human rights obligations and engage constructively with African institutions to address the crisis.
Push to abolish death penalty
The resolution included a call for Tanzania to abolish the death penalty and commute existing death sentences. This reflects long-standing EU policy priorities, particularly in contexts where fair trial guarantees are in doubt. MEPs argued that political prosecutions, including Lissu’s treason case, highlight the risks of maintaining capital punishment.
They also encouraged Tanzania to open channels of dialogue with the opposition and civil society to create the conditions for credible new elections and political reconciliation.
Regional implications
Analysts warn that continued instability in Tanzania could disrupt economic activity and regional humanitarian operations. As one of East Africa’s major economies, the country plays an important role in trade and cooperation. European lawmakers argued that restoring the rule of law and protecting rights in Tanzania is essential not only for its citizens but also for the region’s wider stability.
MEPs stressed that without decisive action, Tanzania risks deeper political fractures and further violence, undermining regional security and democratic norms.
