Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and injuries reported during the post-election unrest and announced plans to form a commission of inquiry to investigate the incidents.

Speaking during the official opening of the 13th parliament on Friday, November 14, 2025, Suluhu, in an apparent change of tune, acknowledged the loss of lives during the October 29, 2025, general elections and urged lawmakers to observe a moment of silence for the deceased.

“I begin with a matter of great sorrow that has occurred in our country, and I ask all honourable Members of Parliament and invited guests to stand for a moment to pray for our fellow citizens,” she said.

Samia called for prayers for the injured to recover swiftly and for families who lost property to find strength and patience during this difficult period.

She confirmed that the government has taken steps to establish an inquiry commission, which will examine the causes and circumstances of the violence.

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She revealed that the findings from the commission are intended to guide dialogue and reconciliation efforts, providing a roadmap for national understanding and restoring trust among citizens.

“The government has taken steps to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate what happened so that we can understand the root causes of the problem. The findings of this inquiry will guide us in engaging in meaningful dialogue to bring reconciliation and understanding to our nation,” she said.

The President reflected on her personal sadness over the events, extending condolences to all affected families and emphasising the importance of resilience, unity, and calm in the country.

She urged citizens to consider dialogue as the most effective path toward resolving grievances and preventing further unrest.

“We ask Almighty God to grant eternal rest to those who lost their lives in the violence that occurred during the elections. Personally, I am deeply saddened by these events, and I extend my condolences to all families who lost their loved ones. We pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and for those who lost property, we ask God to grant them patience and endurance,” Samia said.

The announcement comes after a period of tension that followed the disputed election results.

In early November 2025, President Suluhu urged protesting Tanzanians to prioritise peace, unity, and constructive dialogue over confrontation, warning that unrest would only lead to pain and division.

She had previously stated that no deaths had occurred during the post-election protests and had indicated a firm stance against demonstrators.

Reports from the United Nations and human rights organisations had highlighted serious concerns over election-related violence, noting that at least ten people were killed in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro.

They also reported arbitrary arrests of opposition figures, curfews, and internet restrictions that complicated communication and public access to information.