President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a major national reconciliation initiative to be launched within her first 100 days in office, saying Tanzania must restore unity before embarking on a fresh constitution-making process.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam during a meeting with the Dar es Salaam Council of Elders, President Samia said the country cannot move forward with legal and constitutional reforms while political divisions persist.

“We cannot amend the country’s laws when we are divided. The first step is reconciliation, and I will form a commission within the next 100 days,” she said.

She also issued a firm warning to foreign actors against attempting to dictate how Tanzania manages its domestic affairs, insisting that the country will chart its own course regardless of external pressure or limited aid.

Her remarks come in the wake of the violent incidents of 29 October, which left casualties and caused damage to public infrastructure.

The President also warned that security agencies are aware of plans for new demonstrations, assuring the public that the government is prepared to safeguard the country.

While she briefly criticised attempts by external parties to influence Tanzania’s internal affairs, the President said her administration’s focus remains on stability, youth empowerment and national cohesion.

Chairperson of the Dar es Salaam Regional Council of Elders, Salum Matimbwa, said the elders were deeply shocked by the violent incidents of 29 October, which resulted in the loss of life, destruction of property and damage to vital public infrastructure.

“It has truly distressed us. We elders are saddened by the deaths and the destruction that occurred, and we pray that God may protect those who have passed on and grant them the place they deserve,” he said.

Matimbwa praised President Samia for her swift condemnation of the violence and her pledge to restore peace and stability. He drew comparisons with the colonial-era poll tax, recalling that although the levy was highly unpopular and movement was restricted without payment, Tanzanians did not take to the streets. Instead, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere led national dialogue until reforms were reached.