Protests in Tanzania entered a second day on Thursday following a disputed election, with Amnesty International reporting that two people have died amid unrest.

The demonstrations began Wednesday after the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, in power since independence in 1961, sought to extend its rule in an election that barred candidates from the two main opposition parties. President Samia Suluhu Hassan faced 16 candidates from smaller parties who conducted minimal campaigning.

Early results announced Thursday by the electoral body on state television showed President Hassan leading with 96.99% of votes in eight of the 272 constituencies counted so far. Turnout was low, and violence erupted in Dar es Salaam, with protesters burning a bus and a gas station, attacking police stations, and vandalizing polling centers.

Authorities responded with an internet shutdown, a nationwide curfew, and military deployment to control the unrest. Roadblocks were set up across the country, and public servants were instructed to work from home. Protesters attempted to reach the main airport but were blocked by security forces. Ferry services to Zanzibar, whose electoral body is expected to announce results Thursday, were suspended.

Two fatalities—a civilian and a police officer—were reported by Amnesty International, which also called for investigations into police use of force.

The European Parliament condemned the elections as “neither free nor fair” and urged democratic partners to defend human rights and democratic processes.

The main opposition leader, Tundu Lissu, remains in prison after being charged with treason for advocating electoral reforms. Another presidential candidate from the second largest opposition party, Luhaga Mpina, was barred from running.

Tanzanians voted for president, members of parliament, and ward councilors in Wednesday’s polls, which have sparked nationwide protests amid mounting criticism over the fairness of the electoral process.