Tanzanian Elections Marred by Disqualification of Opposition Parties and Protests

On October 29, 2025, Tanzanians cast their votes in a general election overshadowed by the disqualification of major opposition parties and marred by violent protests, raising significant concerns about the state of democracy in the East African nation.

The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, led by incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan, was widely expected to secure re-election following the barring of key opposition figures. The main opposition party, Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), was disqualified after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct. Its leader, Tundu Lissu, faced treason charges and was subsequently jailed. Similarly, the candidate from the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT-Wazalendo) was disqualified following objections from the Attorney General.

The CCM, established in 1977, has maintained a dominant position in Tanzanian politics since the country's independence in 1961. President Hassan ascended to the presidency in March 2021 following the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli. Initially, her administration introduced reforms aimed at restoring civic rights, such as lifting bans on media outlets and releasing imprisoned opposition leaders. However, by late 2023, there was a perceived regression, with the reappointment of hardline Magufuli loyalists and the postponement of constitutional reforms until after the 2025 elections.

In April 2025, CHADEMA was disqualified from participating in the elections after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct. Its leader, Tundu Lissu, was arrested on charges of incitement and treason after calling for electoral reforms at a rally in Mbinga. On April 12, he was disqualified from participating in the election. Similarly, the candidate from ACT-Wazalendo was disqualified following objections from the Attorney General.

Election day was marked by violent protests across the country, particularly in Dar es Salaam. Demonstrators expressed anger over the exclusion of opposition candidates and alleged human rights abuses. Incidents included the setting of fires to a police station and other properties. In response, authorities imposed a curfew in the city starting at 6 p.m., deployed the military, and disrupted internet services nationwide.

Leading up to the elections, human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, reported incidents of enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings. They have called for investigations into the use of force against protesters and urged Tanzanian authorities to respect human rights before, during, and after the elections.

Voter turnout has been on a declining trend, falling from 67% in 2015 to 52% in 2020. This downward trajectory is expected to continue, reflecting a growing number of citizens questioning the efficacy of voting in the current political climate. The disqualification of major opposition parties and candidates has contributed to voter apathy and skepticism about the electoral process.

Despite political tensions, Tanzania's economy has demonstrated resilience. The country has maintained stable inflation rates and avoided the high risk of external debt distress faced by some neighboring nations. Significant infrastructure projects, such as the development of the Nyanzaga gold mine and the refurbishment of the TAZARA railway, highlight Tanzania's strategic economic potential.

The disqualification of opposition parties and the subsequent unrest have raised serious questions about the erosion of democratic processes in Tanzania. Human rights organizations have called for transparent investigations into reported violations and urged the government to uphold democratic norms. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections for the stability and prosperity of the nation.