MWE Correspondent
As Tanzania prepares for its general election on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, several transportation operators have announced a temporary suspension of services between October 28 and October 30.
The decision is aimed at facilitating voter participation and ensuring a smooth electoral process.
The Tanzania Bus Owners Association (TABOA) explained that the move was prompted by logistical challenges during the election period. However, the Passenger Rights Advocacy Group has criticized the suspension, arguing that it could inconvenience travelers and disrupt essential personal and business plans.
Affected routes include key connections from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza, Tarime, Kilimanjaro, Arusha, Tabora, Mpanda, Bukoba, Karagwe, and Kigoma. In addition, ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, operated by major maritime companies, will also be halted on October 29. Travelers attempting to book tickets online for this period will find no available options for that date.
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Authorities stress that the temporary halt is designed to prioritize electoral integrity and public safety. Similar measures have been employed in past elections to allow citizens uninterrupted access to polling stations and to maintain public order. For example, during the 2020 Tanzanian general election, sea travel in Zanzibar was temporarily restricted to facilitate voting.
The Zanzibar Maritime Authority has confirmed that all vessels will remain docked during election day, and passengers are encouraged to plan travel around these temporary changes. Officials emphasize that these measures are in line with the country’s broader effort to safeguard the democratic process and ensure that citizens can cast their votes without disruption.
With election day approaching, Tanzanians are reminded to remain informed through official sources and follow safety guidelines. While the suspension may cause temporary inconvenience, authorities assert that it is a necessary step to ensure a fair and orderly election.
