Tanzania: Opposition stages protests over cost of living and poll reforms

Tanzania’s main opposition party is holding a protest over high cost of living and delays in constitutional reforms.

The protest march is taking place in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam.

Wednesday’s demonstration is a significant signal from the opposition that is kicking against proposed electoral bills.

Last November, three electoral bills were tabled in the country’s parliament. The opposition said enough consultation did not take place on the bills.

The main opposition party said it wants the three bills all withdrawn to allow for varied views from other stakeholders.

– — –

It wants Wednesday’s protests to force the government to carry out the reforms ahead of next year’s general election.

Local government elections are scheduled for later this year.

Meanwhile the police have warned against violence and incitement at the protest.

Demonstrators were only allowed to hit the streets following a consensus with the police.

This will be the first major mass protest in Tanzania after President Samia Suluhu Hassan took power in March 2021.

She succeeded her predecessor John Magufuli who died in office. Magufuli had been accused of stifling dissent after banning political rallies.

President Hassan enjoys international goodwill for striking a reformist political tone since coming to power.

What Germany’s new immigration law means for African skilled workers

Source: Africafeeds.com