The African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has extended warm congratulations to Samia Suluhu Hassan following her re-election as President of the United Republic of Tanzania. The AU expressed its recognition of the Tanzanian people’s democratic participation while underscoring the importance of upholding constitutional order, peace, and human rights.
The Independent National Electoral Commission of Tanzania (INEC) announced on Saturday that President Hassan, representing the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, secured 97.66 percent of the vote in the 2025 general election. The election, held on Wednesday, was accompanied by reports of public protests in some areas, resulting in casualties and raising concerns among civic groups and observers.
In a statement issued from Addis Ababa, Chairperson Youssouf expressed deep regret over the loss of life during the post-electoral unrest, extending condolences to affected families. He emphasised the “imperative of upholding fundamental rights and freedoms, including peaceful assembly and expression,” urging Tanzanian authorities to ensure these liberties are protected within the framework of national law.
Youssouf also reiterated the AU’s commitment to working with the government and people of Tanzania in fostering stability, political inclusiveness, and national cohesion. He reaffirmed the organisation’s guiding principles enshrined in the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, highlighting respect for human rights, democratic governance, and the rule of law as foundations of a stable and prosperous continent.
President Hassan’s re-election represents a significant moment in the country’s political landscape. Having first assumed office in March 2021 following the passing of President John Pombe Magufuli, Hassan became Tanzania’s first female head of state—a milestone often cited as a symbol of gradual transformation in gender representation within African leadership.
Her presidency continues to be viewed within the broader context of Tanzania’s post-independence political continuity and reform trajectory, reflecting both the enduring influence of the CCM, which has governed since 1961, and the evolving aspirations of a younger, more diverse electorate.
The AU’s statement also called upon all Tanzanians to exercise their democratic rights peacefully and with mutual respect, affirming that sustainable governance and inclusive participation remain the cornerstones of the continental vision for progress.
As Tanzania looks ahead to the next phase of its democratic journey, regional analysts underscore that balanced engagement between state institutions, civil society, and regional bodies such as the AU will be vital in consolidating peace and democratic maturity across East Africa.
The African Union reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting Tanzania through diplomatic dialogue, capacity building, and electoral governance initiatives that align with Africa’s long-term vision of Agenda 2063 — “The Africa We Want.”
