By Business Insider Reporter, Dodoma
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed the country’s security agencies and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to conduct a thorough review of all treason cases filed across the country in the aftermath of the October 29 general election, and to release anyone found to have been caught up in the chaos “without knowing what they were doing.”
The directive came during her inauguration speech to the newly sworn-in Parliament on Friday November 14, 2025, marking the start of her second term and signalling what observers see as an early push toward political reconciliation after a tense election season.
A sombre beginning
Before delivering her policy agenda, President Samia began with a moment of national mourning, asking MPs to stand for one minute of silence in honour of those who lost their lives in clashes that erupted on election day.
“Before I do so, let me start with disturbing incident which occurred in the country recently,” she said.
She went on to express deep sadness over the fatalities and injuries recorded during the unrest.
“I am personally very saddened by what happened,” she told lawmakers. “I extend my condolences to all families who lost their loved ones, and we pray that the Almighty rests their souls in peace. For the injured, we pray for quick recovery, and for those whose property was destroyed, we ask for patience and resilience.”
Enquiry Commission to probe the violence
President Samia confirmed that the government has already formed an Enquiry Commission to investigate the events of October 29th, promising transparency and accountability in understanding what triggered the violence that swept parts of the country.
“The government has taken steps to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate what happened so that we can understand the root cause of the problem.,” she said.
The findings of the commission, she added, will guide the government in charting a path toward “dialogue, understanding and peace.”
In what is likely to be one of the most consequential decisions of the new administration, President Samia ordered a comprehensive re-examination of the treason cases currently before the courts.
Dozens of people – including activists, young voters, and some opposition supporters – were charged in various regions after protests, barricades and sporadic clashes followed the election.
The President instructed the police, intelligence services and the DPP to determine who among the accused genuinely intended to subvert state authority, and who simply found themselves swept into the chaos.
She stressed that those who were unintentionally involved – particularly the young, the uninformed and those misled by crowds – should be freed.
This approach aligns with a broader shift seen in her previous initiatives, including pardons, the reopening of political space, and attempts at reconciling with key opposition figures since she took office in 2021.
A political environment in transition
Analysts say the directive reflects President Samia’s continued attempt to differentiate her leadership by emphasising de-escalation, national healing, and dialogue. The 2025 election, though largely peaceful nationwide, saw isolated but deadly clashes in some urban centres as voters protested delays, misinformation and mistrust during the tallying process.
Human rights groups and legal experts have raised concerns over the severity of the treason charges – some of the most serious in Tanzanian law – arguing that they risk being used too broadly in politically charged moments.
By ordering a review at such a high-profile forum, President Samia appears to be signalling that her second term will prioritise stabilisation, reconciliation and the rebuilding of trust between citizens and state institutions.
What comes next
The Enquiry Commission’s findings, expected in the coming weeks, will help determine the scope of reform and possible policy changes. Meanwhile, the DPP’s review of cases may lead to mass withdrawals, reduced charges, or releases.
For many families whose relatives have been detained since the election, the President’s remarks offer hope that justice may be approached with more nuance and compassion.
As she closed the section of her speech addressing the unrest, President Samia reiterated that the nation must move forward through dialogue. President Samia message was clear: the path ahead must prioritise unity, justice and national healing as Tanzania enters a new political chapter.
