Political parties close ranks, support inquiry report

DAR ES SALAAM: IN a political landscape often defined by rivalry and recrimination, Tanzania has offered a rare and instructive moment of collective restraint. In the aftermath of the October 29, 2025 unrest, sixteen political parties across ideological divides have chosen not the path of confrontation, but of convergence.

By jointly endorsing the findings of the Commission of Inquiry and engaging it in dialogue, they have signalled something deeper than agreement on a report, a shared commitment to nationhood above partisanship.

This moment speaks to a quiet but significant evolution in Tanzania’s democratic culture. It reflects a growing political maturity, one that recognises that disagreement needs not descend into division, and that accountability, when grounded in evidence and process, can become a bridge rather than a battleground.

In choosing to sit at the same table, these parties have demonstrated that the true test of democracy is not in the absence of conflict, but in the willingness to resolve it with dignity, discipline, and a sense of common destiny.

Following their recent meeting with the Commission in Dar es Salaam, political parties endorsed and approved the report describing it as professional, evidence-based, and grounded in credible and verifiable findings derived through scientific methodology.

The parties expressed satisfaction with both the investigation and the report, noting that it has shed light on key issues and answered many of the questions raised by Tanzanians.

They said it now serves as an important foundation for national healing. Leaders from 16 political parties met the commission on Wednesday, during which they were taken through the report in detail and provided with comprehensive explanations of its findings.

Speaking shortly after the meeting, Chairman of the Tanzania Political Parties Council, who is also the leader of ADATADEA, Juma Ali Khatibu, urged Tanzanians to receive the report positively and to disregard individuals spreading misinformation and incitement.

He commended the commission, led by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, for its thorough work and called on citizens to support both the report and the forthcoming criminal investigation process aimed at safeguarding peace and stability in the country.

Veteran politician and former Chairman of the Alliance for Democratic Change (ADC), Mr Hamad Rashid Mohammed, described the commission as composed of highly competent experts, demonstrating that Tanzania possesses strong local expertise.

“With the experience the commissioners bring, they have delivered three key outcomes: Integrity, scientific rigour, and a commitment to uncovering the truth behind the allegations,” he said.

Mr Mohammed added that the report offers clear recommendations that provide a pathway for the nation to navigate this difficult period. He also urged Tanzanians to remain patient and tolerant as reconciliation efforts continue, emphasising the importance of unity in rebuilding the nation.

Similarly, Chairperson of the Alliance for African Farmers Party (AAFP) and former Zanzibar Presidential Candidate Said Soud Said, said the report has significantly addressed public concerns by providing answers to many pressing questions.

He expressed confidence that legal action will be taken against those found culpable and called on the government to expedite the process to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents in the future.

Husna Mohamed Abdallah, who previously ran as a vice-presidential candidate under the Civic United Front (CUF), described the report as fair and balanced, noting that it highlights weaknesses on all sides without favour or bias. She underscored the importance of self-reflection, at both individual and institutional levels, encouraging citizens to learn from past mistakes.

“This country belongs to all of us. Whatever happens, we are the ones who will bear the consequences. That is why it is essential to safeguard our peace,” she said.

She also called for a collective commitment to preserving peace, warning that instability would ultimately harm all Tanzanians. Chairperson for the Democratic Party (DP) Abdul Mluhya likened the commission’s report to a remedy capable of healing democratic wounds.

He said the report tackles a wide range of issues affecting society, including accountability and socio-economic challenges, reflecting the country’s political maturity and independence in managing its affairs.

Secretary General of the National League for Democracy (NLD), Doyo Hassan Doyo also endorsed the report as a vital solution for moving the country forward. He urged citizens to refrain from engaging in insults or uttering disparaging remarks directed at the commission and instead uphold discipline and respect as fundamental values.

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He also stressed the importance of respecting differing opinions and engaging in dialogue without resorting to hostility. Chama Cha Makini Secretary General and former Zanzibar presidential candidate, Ameir Hassan Ameir, praised the report and encouraged its use as a tool for fostering unity and national cohesion.

He warned against the misuse of social media by some politicians to incite division, urging young people not to be influenced by those pursuing narrow personal interests, but instead to prioritise national peace and cohesion.

“I urge young people not to be misled by individuals acting in their own interests. Let us work together and continue to engage with the commission, as its findings offer a path towards national healing,” he said.

Secretary General of the National Reconstruction Alliance (NRA), Almasi Kisabya, echoed sentiments once expressed by Nelson Mandela during South Africa’s reconciliation process, “Great anger and violence cannot lead a nation.” He said that for Tanzania to progress, citizens must set aside anger and avoid unrest, placing national interest above all else.

Mr Kisabya further called on Tanzanians to trust the commission’s work and to approach national discussions with calmness and unity, setting aside partisan ideologies in favour of the greater good. The commission has also continued to clarify claims circulating on social media regarding the number of deaths and allegations involving Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated images.

On fatalities, Member of the Commission Ambassador Radhia Msuya said the death toll stands at 518, based on data compiled from the Ministry of Health, hospital records and reports from individuals who notified authorities of burials.

Additionally, Lieutenant General Paul Mella said expert analysis confirmed that some images were AI-generated, while others were taken from unrest in other countries and misleadingly presented as events that occurred in Tanzania.