In a significant move to address political tensions and foster national healing, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan today officially launched an Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the incidents of violence that marred the period during and after the General Election held on October 29, 2025.
The establishment of the commission, which was formally constituted on November 18 under the Commissions of Inquiry Act of 2023, signals the government’s commitment to a transparent, homegrown assessment of the events that threatened the nation’s peace.
“I have confidence in their ability to carry out this important role with professionalism and integrity,” President Samia stated, addressing the newly sworn-in members at the launch ceremony. She thanked the commissioners for accepting the critical assignment in the national interest.
A Mandate for Truth and Foundation for Reconciliation
The Commission, granted a three-month term to complete its work, has been tasked with a comprehensive mandate. Its terms of reference include conducting a thorough investigation into:
- The root causes and sources of the violent incidents.
- The actions and conduct of various political and social stakeholders during the period.
- The adequacy and effectiveness of steps taken by authorities to quell the violence and protect citizens and property.
President Samia directly linked the inquiry’s work to her broader promise of national dialogue, revealing that its findings will be instrumental in shaping the next phase of her reconciliation agenda.
“The work and recommendations of this Commission will lay the foundation for the establishment of the Dialogue and Reconciliation Commission, as I promised within the first 100 days of my second term,” the President affirmed.
She emphasized that opting for a domestic inquiry, rather than an international one, was a deliberate choice rooted in the importance of national self-reflection. The Commission’s recommendations are expected to provide a crucial roadmap for Tanzania to strengthen its foundations as a nation “that values peace, stability, and solidarity.”
A Jurist of Stature to Lead the Probe
Heading the high-stakes investigation is Retired Chief Justice, Hon. Mohamed Chande Othman, a jurist with an esteemed local and international reputation.
Hon. Othman served as the Chief Justice of Tanzania from 2010 to 2017. His extensive international experience includes roles as a UN prosecutor and expert advisor at various international criminal tribunals, including those for Rwanda (ICTR) and East Timor (UNTAET). He has also led UN Human Rights Council inquiries into conflicts in Israel-Lebanon and Southern Sudan.
Currently, he chairs the UN Independent Panel of Experts examining new evidence related to the death of former UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld, underscoring the global trust in his impartiality and expertise.
The Commission is expected to begin its work immediately, with its final report anticipated by mid-February 2026.
