Tanzania is pursuing the arrest of ten opposition leaders following deadly protests that erupted during recent elections, while in Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney's minority government has survived two confidence votes on its budget, alleviating immediate concerns of a winter federal election. Both nations are grappling with significant political challenges that could shape their governance in the coming months.

Tanzania’s Arrest Warrant for Opposition Leaders
Tanzanian authorities have issued arrest warrants for ten individuals, including prominent figures from the opposition party Chadema, in connection with protests that turned deadly last week. The unrest followed the announcement of election results, which saw incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan declared the winner with 98% of the vote. The opposition, barred from participating, condemned the results as fraudulent. Reports from Chadema and human rights organizations indicate that security forces killed over 1,000 people during the demonstrations. The government has refuted these claims, asserting that the elections were conducted fairly.

Protests erupted on October 29 in cities across Tanzania, leading to violent clashes with police. Authorities have since charged 145 individuals with treason and are conducting a manhunt for those allegedly responsible for the unrest. President Hassan acknowledged the violence but attributed the unrest to foreign influences, asserting that the arrested individuals were not Tanzanian citizens. Despite the turmoil, she was sworn into office on Monday in a ceremony that was closed to the public.

Canada's Budget Confidence Votes
In Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney's government has successfully navigated two confidence votes regarding its budget, easing fears of an impending federal election. The Liberal government, which holds a minority position, managed to secure the necessary support from opposition lawmakers, including unexpected backing from some Conservative members. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne presented a budget that anticipates a significant deficit, citing a protracted trade war with the United States and a weakened domestic economy as key factors. The government plans to make substantial investments aimed at reshaping the economy while striving to reduce the deficit over the next several years.

Carney's administration has faced criticism for being out of touch with opposition concerns, as some argue the budget is both too expansive and insufficient. However, a recent defection from a Conservative MP to the Liberals provided a crucial boost to Carney's position, allowing the government to move forward with its fiscal plans. The final vote on the budget is scheduled for mid-November.

Wrap-up
Both Tanzania and Canada are navigating complex political landscapes marked by protests and budgetary challenges. In Tanzania, the government's crackdown on dissent raises concerns about political repression and human rights violations, while in Canada, the successful passage of the budget reflects the delicate balancing act of maintaining a minority government amid opposition pressures. As these situations evolve, the potential for further unrest in Tanzania and political maneuvering in Canada remains high.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team