Members of the European Parliament have recommended sanctions against the Tanzanian government following the October 29, 2025, elections.
During a motion to discuss the political situation in the aftermath of the October 29 elections on November 26, 2025, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) condemned the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, Chairman of CHADEMA, and reports of kidnapping and killings.
“Arrested and dozens now face treason charges, a clear sign of how far democratic space has narrowed. Tundu Lissu, a long-time defender of democracy and chairman of the party, Kadema, was arrested six months before the elections and charged with high treason, a crime that still carries the death penalty under Tanzanian law. His case is emblematic of a broader pattern of intimidation of the opposition, media restriction, and enforced disappearances,” said one of the members.
The European Parliament members have since urged the EU to suspend its substantial financial support to Tanzania, arguing that it must be aligned with the progress in the rule of law, accountability, and protection of fundamental freedoms.
Also Read: Kenyan Hospitals Start Admitting Injured Tanzanian Protesters Amid Escalating Unrest
Additionally, the members have urged the EU to monitor all actions with transparency.
“The EU has to stop its substantial financial support to Tanzania; such cooperation must be firmly tied to progress on the rule of law, fundamental freedoms, and accountability. Europe must monitor the situation closely, speak with clarity, and act consistently,” another member of the European Parliament said.
‘The European Union must not use its funds to subsidize oppression. The time to act is now.”
Call for action on Tanzania’s election day violence and Human rights violations
Furthermore, the MEPs have condemned the use of lethal force against protesters and arbitrary arrests, and internet shutdown for several days, which restricted access to information, adding that Tanzania needs free and fair elections.
Also Read: Suluhu Taken to ICC Over Post-Election Violence in Tanzania
They have since called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners, particularly Tundu Lissu, calling for independent investigations into killings and kidnappings.
“Urgently required is an independent and credible investigation into all killings, abductions, and enforced disappearances. The great people of Tanzania deserve new, free, and credible elections.”
“We demand that he be released immediately and unconditionally, along with all others detained for exercising basic political freedoms. And we call for strong and coordinated EU measures, including the suspension of direct financial support to the Tanzanian authorities. But beyond condemning, we must push for inclusive political dialogue, credible reforms, and a genuine return to democratic governance, where citizens’ rights and freedoms are at the heart of the process.”
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