(Photo: CNN / AP)

The Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI), representing 12 million workers in the construction, building materials, wood, and forestry sectors worldwide, has expressed deep concern over reports of post-election protests, violence, and widespread violations of democratic processes and human rights in Tanzania.

Democracy in the country has sharply deteriorated following the general election. The ruling party claimed a 98 percent victory on 3 November 2025, amid reports that the main opposition was prevented from fielding candidates and that its leaders were subsequently jailed. The aftermath has reportedly resulted in severe human and labour rights violations, including an estimated 800 deaths, numerous injuries, and a nationwide internet shutdown.

The Tanzanian government has also been accused of systematically undermining fundamental rights by denying families the ability to bury their dead and restricting citizens’ access to information and freedom of expression. Workers and communities are said to be living in fear amid ongoing abductions, while the rising cost of food and essential services has placed additional strain on working families despite the resumption of economic activity.

BWI extends its solidarity and condolences to affected families and calls for the immediate release of all those unjustly detained. It urged the Tanzanian government to uphold human and labour rights, warning of the profound impact that instability is having on the nation’s workforce. It also appealed to regional bodies in East and Southern Africa, as well as the African Union (AU), to press Tanzania to restore the rule of law.

“The violence and contempt for electoral integrity demonstrated in this crisis are unacceptable. BWI will continue to hold the Tanzanian government accountable to the highest international human rights and labour standards until the fundamental rights and freedoms of all workers and citizens are fully restored and protected,” said Crecentia Mofokeng, BWI Africa and Middle East Regional Representative.