The African Union (AU) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Samia Suluhu Hassan on her resounding victory in Tanzania’s presidential election. The announcement was made by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who lauded Hassan’s triumph as a significant milestone for the nation. The Tanzanian Independent National Electoral Commission declared on Saturday that Hassan, representing the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party, secured an overwhelming 97.66 percent of the vote in the general elections held on Wednesday. However, the electoral process was overshadowed by violent protests, prompting Youssouf to express profound sorrow over the loss of lives and extend condolences to the bereaved families. In his statement, Youssouf emphasized the importance of protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, including peaceful assembly and expression, and urged Tanzanian authorities to uphold these principles within the legal framework. He also called on citizens to exercise their rights responsibly and reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to supporting Tanzania in maintaining peace, national unity, and democratic governance. Hassan, who previously served as vice-president from 2015 to 2021, assumed the presidency in March 2021 following the demise of President John Magufuli, becoming Tanzania’s first female head of state. Her election marks a historic achievement, further solidifying her role as a trailblazer in Tanzanian politics.