DAR ES SALAAM, April 23 -- NATIONS rarely slide into crisis in a single moment. More often, instability begins quietly, through contested narratives, rising mistrust and unresolved grievances. If left unattended, these pressures can accumulate, harden positions and, in some cases, escalate into violence with far-reaching consequences.

Tanzanias unrest that followed the October 29 General Election has been successfully limited and contained. Even so, in a region where similar tensions have in the past developed into serious crises, it presents an opportunity for reflection.

The experiences of neighbouring countries show that the period immediately following political contestation is often decisive in determining whether a nation consolid...