No  internet  disruption, Dr Samia assures diplomats and foreigners of their safety  

DODOMA: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has assured the diplomatic community and foreign residents of their safety in the country following service disruptions and internet shutdowns during last year’s general elections.

The Head of State made the statement when addressing Ambassadors from various countries in a Diplomatic Sherry Party held at the Chamwino State House in Dodoma on Thursday, vowing that the experience will never repeat itself.

“To our partners in the diplomatic community and the foreigners residing here: I express my sincere sympathy for the uncertainty, service disruptions, and internet shutdowns you experienced. I assure you that we remain vigilant to ensure your safety and prevent any repeat of such experiences,”she said.

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The President’s statement comes as Tanzania reflects on the Seventh Democratic Election, which was fully funded through domestic resources and achieved nearly 45 percent women representation in the National Assembly, which underscored national ownership, institutional maturity, and the government’s commitment to self-reliance in managing democratic processes.

“Despite these remarkable achievements, with heavy hearts we acknowledge the challenges of the unrest and violence on the election day and shortly thereafter, our response was essential to maintain constitutional order and ensure the safety of all citizens and the diplomatic community,” she said.

Commenting on democracy, she noted that it is a journey of growth and every political system contains grievances which makes it clear that there is no global formula for the unique challenges.

“We must afford each other the space to learn and grow with humility.  To those who sent solidarity and congratulatory messages, we thank you. To those who did not, we take note of your feedback too. I ask our friends of goodwill to lend their support to our reforms; and to those who may not share our vision, I ask that you at least respect our sovereignty,”she said.

She emphasized that the voice of Tanzanians has been heard through the ballot box, and that the voice must be respected.

However, she mentioned various steps taken by the government to foster national healing which includes, the establishment of the Ministry of Youth under the President’s Office to Institutionalize the energy of our next generation, the pardoned issued to 1787 convicts associated with the unrest and violence of 29 October, the establishment of an Independent Commission of Inquiry in accordance with the Constitution and pledge to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to precede a New Constitution process.