The bombings on the island of Zanzibar are now believed to be the follow-up of last month’s disputed election in Tanzania. Experts believe more trouble is on the way for the region.
Earlier today a low-density bomb blast took place near popular tourist destination Stone Town. Yesterday too two similar bombings were witnessed and on Friday an undetonated bomb was found on the island. However, there were no injuries reported due to these bombs.
Stone Town is known for its teeming bazaars and labyrinthine streets.
Meanwhile, Britain has issued a travel advisory for its people visiting Zanzibar saying violence could escalate anytime and going out on the streets should be avoided.
Zanzibar is a semiautonomous part of Tanzania. It is usually considered as a relaxed and friendly place to visit. In the 19th century the Stone Town was famous for various trades including elephant tusks, spices and carvings. It was also known for trading slaves. The place was bustling capital of an Indian Ocean empire.
In recent decades the island has become tensed during election times. In 2001 dozens were killed after disputed election.
On the October 25 presidential elections were held in Tanzania and Zanzibar, but the Zanzibar election commission has cancelled it due to ballot box fraud and fights among election managers as well.
The opposition claim they had won the elections.
The American Embassy in Tanzania has stepped in and urged election chairman to reverse the decision.
However, the Zanzibar unrest did not affect the presidential race and the governing party won with good margin.
The people in Zanzibar said more trouble for them may be brewing.
