Tanzania’s elections opened on Wednesday under conditions that have drawn criticism from human rights groups and international observers. Key opposition leaders are either jailed or barred from participating, prompting Amnesty International to describe a “wave of terror” targeting political opponents and activists.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, is seeking a strong victory to solidify her leadership and quiet dissent within her party. Elevated from vice-president in 2021 after the death of her predecessor John Magufuli, Hassan became the country’s first female president. Early in her term, democratic campaigners welcomed her for easing restrictions on the media and opposition, but those hopes have largely faded as political repression has continued.
AFP correspondents observed voting in Zanzibar, where analysts anticipate a more competitive race due to the island’s semi-autonomous status and relative political freedom. Mainland Tanzania, however, remains largely off-limits to foreign journalists, preventing independent observation of the elections there.
Why Are Opposition Parties Excluded?
Hassan’s main challenger, Tundu Lissu, faces treason charges that could carry the death penalty, while his party, Chadema, is barred from running. Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, the only other viable candidate, was disqualified on technical grounds. Even members of the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), appear vulnerable. Humphrey Polepole, a former CCM spokesman, disappeared after criticizing Hassan, and blood stains were later discovered in his home. The Tanganyika Law Society has confirmed 83 abductions since Hassan took office, with 20 more reported in recent weeks.
Authorities continue to operate with the same intelligence personnel installed under Magufuli. Analysts in Dar es Salaam warn that suppression of dissent may now represent a “new normal” rather than a temporary lapse. The government maintains tight control, restricting protests and targeting potential unrest, as evidenced by the arrest of 17 individuals in Kagera region ahead of election day.
How Is the Government Addressing Security and Development?
Despite the political crackdown, Tanzania’s economy remains relatively healthy. According to the World Bank, the country grew 5.5 percent last year, driven by agriculture, tourism, and mining. Hassan has also promised large infrastructure projects and universal health insurance to appeal to voters. At a recent rally, she stated, “I want to assure citizens that there will be no security threat on voting day. We are well-prepared for security. Those who have failed to participate in the competition should not seek to disrupt our election.”
The elections are shaping up as a decisive moment in Tanzania’s political landscape, testing both the resilience of opposition movements and the strategies of a government determined to maintain control.
By Lucky Anyanje
