Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland has raised concerned on electoral malpractices in the just concluded Tanzania general election.
Opposition leader Tundu Lissu rejected the results of October 28th election claiming the government rigged the election.
Opposition parties rejected official results which saw President John Magufuli win a second term with 84%, and his governing Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party take 97% seats in parliament.
Lissu and other opposition politicians were recently arrested and later released after calling for for mass protests against the government.
The two main opposition parties, Chadema and ACT Wazalendo, have demanded that the October 28th election be nullified and fresh elections held.
- Tanzania Elections: Tundu Lissu rejects Elections Results
- Lissu, Other Tanzania Opposition Leaders Demand Fresh Vote
- Tanzanian Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Arrested In Dar es Salaam
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland is calling on Tanzania authorities to investigate allegations electoral irregularities as raised by the opposition.
“By turning out to vote on October 28, the people of Tanzania once again placed their hope in our shared values of democracy. I laud them for their unwavering commitment. However, I am deeply concerned by reports alleging serious incidents of violence and electoral malpractice,” said Patricia Scotland.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General further called on Tanzania’s government to conduct the necessary investigations and ensure the rule of law, justice and accountability prevail to maintain the people of Tanzania’s confidence in democracy.
“I hope that every option will be explored to maintain trust in the electoral process and to ensure that democracy, peace and unity are safeguarded in Tanzania,” said Commonwealth Secretary-General.
Related: US Cites Allegations Of Fraud In Tanzania Election
