Samia Suluhu Orders Tanzanian MPs to Stand in Silence For One Minute in Memory of Those Who Died in the Post-Election Violence

 Tanzania's just been through a whirlwind election that's left the nation reeling. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, freshly re-elected in a contentious October 29, 2025 vote, has finally addressed the deadly post-election violence that's shattered the country's image of peace. But instead of a full-throated condemnation or memorial gesture, she's opting for a measured call to dialogue – a move that's drawing mixed reactions as opposition figures claim hundreds have perished in the unrest.The drama unfolded right after the polls closed, with protests erupting over alleged electoral irregularities. Opposition party ACT-Wazalendo dropped a bombshell, asserting that around 700 people were killed in just three days of clashes – a staggering figure that's sent shockwaves through the region.President Suluhu, who became Tanzania's first female leader in 2021 and was seeking to solidify her grip on power, initially faced criticism for her silence amid the conflicting reports.International bodies aren't staying quiet either. The United Nations Secretary-General expressed deep concern over the violence, injuries, and deaths, while the Commonwealth and African Union issued rare rebukes, highlighting the need for restraint and transparency.This isn't Tanzania's first brush with electoral tension – think back to the 2020 polls under the late John Magufuli – but the scale here feels amplified. Suluhu's journey from reformist hopes to facing repression accusations marks a pivotal shift, as critics argue the election was rigged to silence dissent within her own Chama Cha Mapinduzi party.