Tanzania on my mind

My heart is heavy. Yesterday, Tanzania held its general election despite millions of Tanzanians demanding reforms. Their cries seemed to land on deaf ears, and when not, those in power threatened people who wanted peaceful demonstrations. The result? Aggravated young people taking to the streets, burning police offices and private property. I do not know what to say or who to say this to, as the powers that be have also shut down the internet. I understand the frustration of the people. After all the corruption, disappearances, the jailing of the opposition and intense suppression of people’s rights and freedoms, all that was silently simmering finally erupted. The frustration people have been begging the government to listen to and find a solution to is now out in the open for the world to see. The people did not want this farce of an election. The people did not want abductions. The people were tired of corruption.  I am full of wonder – young people have once again shown courage to stand up for what they believe in. Yet, I must admit, I am also fearful, seeing my beloved country burning. I never thought I would see the day the people rise like this. I know change comes at a cost, so I ask them to protest peacefully. Still, can someone please listen to the people? The people have spoken, and so, now, the electoral committee must do what is right. I pray that there is a state machinery that cares for the fate of the country, that can call things to order. It is the state’s silence to the cries of the people that has brought us here today. People want justice. People want free and fair elections, where all parties are allowed to compete and have a fair chance of winning or losing. The people want the end of state capture and cronyism. They want Tundu Lissu free, and for all those abducted to be brought back. They want those who abused their power to face justice. Will you listen? Will you please listen? And more so, will you also act with courage for the sake of the country?