Nation backs inquiry report, calls for unity, action

DAR ES SALAAM: RETIRED leaders and citizens across several regions have commended the Commission of Inquiry into the October 2025 General Election unrest, expressing confidence that its findings and recommendations will help strengthen unity, reconciliation and long-term stability in the country.

In Arusha, former Daraja Mbili Ward councillor and Deputy Mayor of Arusha City in the 1990s and 2000s, Modest Meikoki, said the Commission had fulfilled its mandate by uncovering key facts behind the violence. He cited findings indicating that some of the unrest was organised and executed by youths allegedly paid up to 50,000/- to carry out the agendas of politicians and activists.

“I have no doubt about the Commission’s report, it has done its job well, including establishing the number of people who died during the October 29 incident,” said Meikoki. “However, there must also be accountability among leaders, as some did not perform their duties effectively.”

Former Ngarenaro Ward councillor Isaya Doita said the report has helped clear doubts among those who initially questioned the Commission’s credibility by identifying the causes and triggers of the unrest. He added that internal challenges within political parties, including allegations of corruption and unfair practices during nominations, can fuel discontent if left unresolved.

“The Commission noted that some councillors and Members of Parliament were allegedly involved in inciting unrest in collaboration with activists,” he said. A retired diplomat in Kilimanjaro Region, who requested anonymity, urged Tanzanians to use the report as a guide for maintaining peace and preventing future conflict. “The report reflects strong national solidarity, especially among victims who came forward to testify,” he said.

“Their courage should be commended, and the recommendations should now be implemented promptly.” Residents in Arusha Region, including Elizabeth Mollel of Moshono and Nurudin Hashimu, said the Commission had delivered on its responsibility by presenting the truth, adding that the next step lies in implementation.

In Manyara Region, Honoratha Adrian and Musa Tulway of Babati District said the report has strengthened public trust by identifying both the causes of unrest and those responsible.

“The findings will help ensure appropriate action is taken for the country’s future,” they said.

In Kilimanjaro, Moshi Municipality resident Peter Msovela praised the Commission, led by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, for its work.

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“The outcome will form a foundation for rebuilding Tanzania after a difficult period following last October’s election,” he said. Marcelina Chiza, a trader at Mbuyuni Market in Moshi, called for collective responsibility in restoring national unity. “Many Tanzanians were hurt by the events. Authorities and citizens must work together to ensure such incidents do not happen again,” she said.

In Kagera Region, religious and political leaders called on Tanzanians to trust the Commission and focus on national unity. Kagera Regional Sheikh of Bakwata, Haruna Kichwabuta, urged citizens to move forward collectively.

“We commend the Commission for gathering views from different groups. Tanzanians should now unite and move forward,” he said. Kagera Regional CCM Chairman, Dr Nazir Karamagi, echoed the call, urging citizens not to allow elections to divide them. “We must support ongoing national development efforts and maintain unity,” he said, while also encouraging increased agricultural production to improve livelihoods.

In Dodoma, Elizabeth Msuya from Ntyuka commended the government for establishing the Commission and called for full implementation of its recommendations.

“This shows commitment to addressing what happened. If the recommendations are implemented, such incidents can be avoided in future,” she said.

Ihumwa resident Robert Daniel recalled the economic hardships his family faced when his restaurant closed during the unrest due to supply disruptions.

“With this report, I believe the country now has a path to lasting solutions,” he said. Academic voices also welcomed the report. Dr Dotto Bulendu, a lecturer at St Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT) in Mwanza, said the Commission demonstrated professionalism and discipline in executing its mandate. “It applied appropriate methods in collecting and analysing information, which strengthens the credibility of its findings,” he said.

He added that the Commission respected its scope while addressing key public concerns, reflecting its commitment to transparency and accountability. Dr Bulendu also noted President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s reaffirmation of her commitment to the 4Rs—Reconciliation, Resilience, Reform and Reconstruction, as a guiding framework for national healing.

“This is a call for all Tanzanians to participate in rebuilding the nation with patriotism and responsibility,” he said.

Meanwhile, Binagi Media Director George Binagi pointed to youth unemployment as a major underlying factor contributing to the unrest.

“Youth unemployment remains a serious challenge and must be addressed urgently to prevent future instability,” he said. He also urged political leaders to act responsibly, warning against the manipulation of young people for political gain.

Binagi further stressed the importance of addressing broader governance issues highlighted in various reports, including Constitutional reforms, strengthening democracy and ending abductions.

“These are priority areas for ensuring longterm stability and development,” he said.

The overall sentiment from stakeholders across the regions is that the Commission’s report provides a critical opportunity for reflection, reform and national healing, with many calling for swift implementation of its recommendations to secure lasting peace and unity.