The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has reacted to a series of statements issued by foreign governments and development partners following the events of October 29, saying it has taken note of the concerns but is urging all stakeholders to allow national processes to run their course.

In a statement released on Friday, December 5, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation said it had observed comments made over the past week by several countries and institutions, including Belgium, Canada, Denmark, the European Union Delegation, Finland, France, Ghana, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, the United Nations Human Rights Council, and the Thabo Mbeki Foundation.

According to the statement, the Tanzanian government is “concerned particularly with the contents of these statements,” especially because the Minister for Foreign Affairs had already met members of the Diplomatic Corps on November 28 for what it described as a candid discussion.

The government stressed that while it recognises the role of the international community in supporting democracy and development, it expects equal recognition for steps taken internally to address the matter.

It highlighted the formation of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the post-election violence.

“While acknowledging the role of the international community in the promotion of democracy and socio-political developments in the country, it is equally important to recognize the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry that will investigate the post-election violence and produce the report.

"The findings of the report will bring about understanding of the unfortunate events that occurred and form the basis for future constructive engagement.”

It further reiterated Tanzania’s commitment to peaceful cooperation and asked all external actors to allow domestic systems to carry out their work.

“Tanzania remains committed to constructive international cooperation for peace and development and respectfully calls upon all stakeholders to allow national mechanisms to implement steps and measures taken by the government,” the statement read.

The government also reassured development partners of its willingness to continue working with them on issues of shared interest.

“The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania wishes to reassure the international community and development partners of its readiness and commitment to continue engagement on all matters of mutual interest, as equal partners,” it added.

Read the full statement below