Tanzania highlighted the efforts of Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, to promote accountability, reconciliation, and institutional strengthening through the establishment of an Independent Commission of Inquiry into the unrest, destruction of property, and alleged deaths linked to the General Elections of October 29, 2025.
The issue was presented during a side event held alongside the 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, where Tanzania described the Commission as a key national mechanism for establishing the facts surrounding the unrest, rebuilding public trust, and supporting democratic governance.
Speaking during the event, Ms. Beatrice Edward Mpembo said the Commission was established on November 18, 2025 under the Commissions of Inquiry Act, Cap. 32, to investigate the events and advise the Government on appropriate measures. She noted that the Commission functions as an independent fact-finding and oversight body tasked with examining the origins of the unrest, reviewing subsequent developments, and assessing the responses taken.
The Commission is chaired by Mohamed Chande Othman, retired Chief Justice of Tanzania, and includes eight other commissioners with expertise in governance, law, security, development, and administration.
According to the presentation, the Commission’s mandate includes investigating the root causes of the disturbances, assessing the response of security authorities, reviewing possible financial backing of those involved, and recommending reforms to prevent future election-related violence and strengthen democratic institutions.
Tanzania also emphasized transparency and public participation in the Commission’s work. A public website was created to provide information on its mandate and allow citizens to submit views through letters, telephone, and social media. Public and private hearings have also been conducted with ministers, the Attorney General, public officials, citizens, academics, and civil society representatives.
The Commission’s findings are expected to inform a proposed National Reconciliation Initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability, promoting dialogue, addressing grievances, and strengthening democratic governance and national unity.
In addition, the Government has taken complementary measures, including the pardon of 1,787 youth offenders linked to minor offences during the unrest and the establishment of a new Youth Ministry under the Office of the President to address youth employment, skills development, and empowerment.
The Commission, initially given 90 days to complete its work, received an additional 42-day extension due to strong public interest and is expected to submit its report in April 2026. Tanzania said the initiative reflects the country’s commitment to justice, accountability, human rights, reconciliation, and inclusive governance.
