Controversy and Repression Mar Tanzania's 2025 General Elections

On October 29, 2025, Tanzanians participated in general elections to select the President, Members of Parliament, and local councillors. The electoral process, however, was overshadowed by significant controversies, including the disqualification of major opposition parties and reports of human rights violations, raising serious concerns about the state of democracy in the country.

The 2025 general elections in Tanzania have been marred by the exclusion of key opposition figures, widespread protests, and allegations of government repression. These developments have prompted both domestic and international observers to question the fairness and credibility of the electoral process.

Since gaining independence in 1961, Tanzania has been predominantly governed by the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli, sought her first full term in this election.

The main opposition party, CHADEMA, led by Tundu Lissu, and the second-largest opposition party, ACT-Wazalendo, faced disqualification from the elections. Lissu was detained on treason charges, and CHADEMA was barred after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct. ACT-Wazalendo's candidate, Luhaga Mpina, was disqualified due to internal party disputes.

The exclusion of CHADEMA and ACT-Wazalendo effectively left President Hassan with minimal opposition, leading to widespread criticism and concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process.

The barring of major opposition parties sparked nationwide protests, particularly in Dar es Salaam, where incidents of arson and vandalism were reported. In response, the government deployed the military, imposed a curfew, and disrupted internet services nationwide.

Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch reported a climate of intimidation, enforced disappearances, and killings during the election period. Amnesty International highlighted that the government has intensified repression against opposition leaders, civil society, journalists, and dissenting voices, including through assaults, arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances.

"Tanzania’s authorities should take immediate measures to protect the integrity of the October elections, which are currently at great risk," said Nomathamsanqa Masiko-Mpaka, Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch.

"Political opponents have faced politically motivated charges and in some cases their right to contest the vote has been denied," stated Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s regional director for East and Southern Africa.

The disqualification of major opposition parties and suppression of dissent reflect a decline in Tanzania's democratic institutions.

Reports of intimidation, enforced disappearances, and killings during the election period raise serious questions about the government's commitment to human rights.

The African Union deployed an Election Observation Mission led by former President of Botswana, H.E. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, comprising 72 observers from 30 African countries. Their findings and the international community's response will be crucial in assessing the credibility of the elections.

Tanzania's 2025 general elections have been characterized by significant controversies that undermine the democratic process. The exclusion of major opposition parties, reports of human rights violations, and the government's heavy-handed response to protests have cast a shadow over the electoral process. As the nation awaits the election results, the international community and human rights organizations continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and respect for democratic principles.