Ghana, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has released a statement calling for a transparent and credible investigation into the events surrounding the October 29 election protest, including the deaths of civilians.
While some former African leaders, including former President of Botswana Ian Khama and former President of South Africa Thabo Mbeki, have issued a statement regarding developments in Tanzania, Ghana is the first African state to directly address the incident independently.
“Ghana particularly regrets the civilian casualties and extends heartfelt condolences to all the families who are grieving their loved ones lost to the unwarranted violence. We also wish speedy recovery to all those who have suffered injuries,” the statement reads.
In the statement, Ghana expressed support for the Tanzanian authorities’ assurances to address impunity through accountability, justice, and respect for constitutional order. It also highlighted the importance of effective policing and public order measures as part of broader strategies for the promotion and protection of human rights, especially for protesters, as well as the need for accountability and justice. Ghana further urged the Government to ensure that security forces and other relevant state institutions in Tanzania are mindful of these obligations.
Ghana’s statement comes a day after President Samia addressed external pressure surrounding the events of October 29.
“Out there, they sit and say, ‘Oh, Tanzania must do this, must do that, must do the other, then it will be like this. Who are you?,” President Samia asked.
“Do these things not happen in their own countries? Do they not happen there? Have we ever raised our voices to speak about what happens in their countries? They still think they are our masters, that they are our colonizers. For what reason? Because of the small amounts of money they give us?,” she continued.
Ghana’s statement marks a critical departure from the long-standing tendency of African governments to adopt a hands-off approach to domestic affairs in fellow states.
