Samia Suluhu’s Silent Massacre: Will the ICC Stand for the Thousands Killed in the 2025 Election Crackdown?

In the months preceding the 29 October 2025 elections, Tanzanians were not merely
anticipating a vote, they were demanding reforms. They had grown increasingly alarmed
about a looming crisis and protests ahead of the elecƟons. Citizens, opposition leaders, and
political activists warned that the electoral process was rigged, with the National Electoral
Commission entirely composed of members appointed by the siƫng president, leaving the
process effectively under the control of those seeking to remain in power. Calls for reform
were met with harsh repression: Tundu Lissu, the main opposition leader, was arrested and
charged with treason, and over 100 others were reportedly abducted, disappeared, or killed
simply for advocating a free and fair election. The climate of fear was set long before the first
vote was cast.