Tanzania's 2025 Elections: A Nation at a Crossroads Amid Unrest and International Scrutiny

On October 29, 2025, Tanzania held general elections to elect the President, members of the National Assembly, and ward councillors. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, faced minimal opposition due to the disqualification of major opposition parties. The elections were marred by significant unrest, including violent protests in major cities such as Dar es Salaam, leading to a government-imposed curfew and international condemnation.

The 2025 Tanzanian elections have underscored growing concerns about the country's democratic trajectory. The exclusion of key opposition figures, suppression of dissent, and violent crackdowns on protests have not only destabilized the nation but also drawn sharp criticism from the international community. This article examines the events leading up to the elections, the immediate aftermath, and the broader implications for Tanzania's political future.

Background on the Political Climate Leading to the 2025 Elections

Tanzania's political landscape has been dominated by the CCM since the country's independence in 1961. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office in March 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli, sought re-election in this cycle. The election period was marked by significant controversy, particularly concerning the exclusion of major opposition parties.

In April 2025, the main opposition party, CHADEMA, was disqualified from participating in the elections after its leader, Tundu Lissu, was charged with treason. Lissu's arrest occurred after he called for electoral reforms at a rally in Mbinga. Following his arrest, CHADEMA refused to sign the electoral code of conduct without reforms, leading to its disqualification. Similarly, the presidential candidate from ACT Wazalendo, the second-largest opposition party, was also barred from contesting.

Election Day Unrest and Government Response

The elections were marred by significant unrest. Protests erupted in major cities, including Dar es Salaam, where demonstrators expressed dissatisfaction with the electoral process and the suppression of opposition voices. The government responded by deploying the military, imposing a curfew, and disrupting internet services nationwide. Amnesty International reported two fatalities—a civilian and a police officer—during the protests and called for investigations into the use of force by authorities.

In Dar es Salaam, police used tear gas to disperse opposition supporters rallying against the election. Clashes broke out when protesters assembled along key roads, calling for electoral reforms and greater political freedoms. Several people were reportedly injured, and fires were set on major routes, damaging buses and destroying several transport terminals and other public facilities.

International Reactions and Condemnations

The European Parliament condemned the elections as undemocratic and urged the Tanzanian government to uphold human rights. Observers noted a climate of intimidation, with reports of enforced disappearances and killings leading up to the elections. The political atmosphere remains tense as the nation awaits the final election results.

Human rights activists have accused the government of heavy-handed tactics against the opposition. The government denies the claims.

Implications for Tanzania's Democratic Future

The exclusion of major opposition parties and the subsequent unrest highlight deep-seated concerns about democratic processes and political freedoms in Tanzania. The government's heavy-handed response to protests and the suppression of dissenting voices may further erode public trust in state institutions. The international community's condemnation could also impact Tanzania's diplomatic relations and its standing in global forums.

Tanzania has a history of political dominance by CCM, but recent years have seen increasing calls for democratic reforms and greater political pluralism. The 2025 elections represent a critical juncture in the country's political trajectory, with potential long-term implications for governance and civil liberties.

The 2025 elections serve as a critical juncture for Tanzania, highlighting the urgent need to address democratic backsliding. Restoring political freedoms and ensuring inclusive governance are essential for the nation's stability and development. The international community's role in supporting democratic institutions and human rights in Tanzania will be crucial in the coming months.