Today, Tanzania found itself at a historic crossroads as citizens across the country went to the polls to elect a new president and members of parliament. With the incumbent president Samia Suluhu Hassan, from the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), seeking re-election, the political landscape has been marred by escalating tensions, especially when the electoral process has been increasingly undermined by state-controlled suppression.
The Current State of Politics
Tanzania’s political environment has been evolving rapidly since the passing of President John Magufuli in March 2021. VP Samia Suluhu, who succeeded him, initially signaled a break from Magufuli's hardline approach to governance. Her early efforts to reopen the economy, improve relations with the international community were welcomed. However, as the election season has drawn closer, criticisms of her leadership have gained momentum, particularly around concerns of growing authoritarianism, human rights violations, and a crackdown on dissent freedoms, social media and the opposition parties.
She's been labelled as the first female dictator in Africa and beyond. Despite her soft voice, Suluhu’s presidency has been quick in silencing dissent, undermining democratic institutions, and curbing the space for opposition parties, particularly Tundu Lissu’s Chadema. Today's election and protests is thus shaping up to be a battle not just for political power but for the very essence of Tanzania's democratic process.
Opposition Suppression and the Rise of Tundu Lissu
Tundu Lissu, the firebrand opposition leader and presidential candidate of the Chadema party, has long been a thorn in the side of the ruling CCM. Lissu’s return to Tanzania in 2020 after surviving an assassination attempt in 2017 (while in exile in Belgium) signaled his unwavering commitment to the opposition movement. His candidacy has garnered significant support, particularly among the youth, who are frustrated by the lack of economic opportunities, corruption, and the seeming erosion of democratic values.
However, his party, Chadema, has been subjected to an aggressive crackdown. Party leaders have been arrested, activists including those from Kenya and Uganda harassed, and opposition rallies banned or disrupted. Most notably, in the lead-up to today’s election, Chadema and several other opposition parties have been excluded from running, with the authorities citing security concerns and the potential for election violence. These tactics are seen by many as an attempt to limit the political choices available to voters and to ensure an uncontested victory for the Suluhu's CCM.
The Role of Youth in Tanzanian Politics
A key factor in this year’s election has been the rising influence of young people in Tanzanian politics. A large segment of the population, especially urban youth, feels disenfranchised and disillusioned with the political status quo. Youth unemployment is at an all-time high, with many young Tanzanians struggling to secure meaningful work or opportunities. The government’s inability to address these concerns has fueled widespread dissatisfaction.
Earlier today, in cities across the country, protests erupted as youth took to the streets to express their frustration with what they perceive as an undemocratic election process. These protests, which began early in the election season, have intensified in recent days, as rumors of electoral manipulation and irregularities spread. Despite a heavy police presence and the use of force to suppress demonstrations, the protests have continued, underscoring the growing discontent among Tanzania’s youth.
Recent Developments
As of today, reports from several regions indicate that polling stations have been marred by long delays, allegations of ballot box stuffing, destroying of ballot boxes, burning of police vehicles and accusations of voter intimidation. International observers have expressed concern over the lack of transparency in the electoral process, noting that opposition representatives were denied access to certain polling stations, and in some areas, opposition party agents were expelled.
In the capital, Dar es Salaam, and major towns like Mwanza, Arusha, Dodoma and Mbeya, protests have erupted, leading to violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Witnesses report that in some areas, police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. The internet has also been intermittently shut down in various regions, further complicating the ability of citizens to communicate and organize.
In an attempt to curb the growing unrest, the government has imposed a nationwide curfew in certain regions, calling it a "security measure" to ensure order during the electoral process. This has only heightened tensions, as many Tanzanians see it as an effort to stifle dissent and prevent the free flow of information.
The International Community’s Response
As the election continues to unfold, the international community has been closely watching the developments in Tanzania. Some like the European Union and the United States have called for calm and peac. The WanTam movement that has been sweeping parts of Africa, especially the youth from Kenya and Southern Africa have urged their colleagues in Tanzania to turn up in huge numbers and free their country from the chains of Dictator Suluhu.
Generally, the actions of the ruling party, combined with reports of election irregularities and human rights abuses, have drawn international criticism.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the suppression of opposition parties and the increasing militarization of the country’s political landscape. In a statement, the UN called for a "transparent, inclusive, and peaceful election" but also warned that the current political climate was casting doubt on the legitimacy of the process.
What Lies Ahead for Tanzania?
As the election results begin to trickle in, the question on everyone's mind is whether the political unrest will settle down or escalate into broader civil discontent. Since Samia is running against Suluhu, definitely she's expected to win. It is seen by pro-government supporters as a reaffirmation of CCM's long-standing dominance. However, for many others, particularly the youth and opposition supporters, this victory may further confirm their belief that Tanzania is on the brink of a major democratic crisis.
Tanzania is at a critical juncture in its political history. The 2025 election will not just determine the country’s leadership for the next five years, it will also shape the future of its democratic institutions, youth engagement in politics, and the balance between authoritarian rule and political freedom.
The outcome of this election will have lasting implications for both Tanzania and the wider East African region. How the government handles the protests, whether international pressure results in electoral reforms, and whether the youth can maintain their momentum for change will be key factors in determining the country’s democratic future.
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