Joseph Isangura
With the countdown to the 2025 Tanzanian General Election underway, the government has clarified that CHADEMA, the main opposition party, can still sign the Election Code of Ethics before candidate nominations officially begin.
Speaking during a national legal forum, Onorious Njole, Tanzania’s Chief Parliamentary Draftsman, stated that the code—while already drafted—is not yet in legal effect and is scheduled to become operational one day before the nomination phase. Until then, political parties remain free to sign and comply with it voluntarily.
“The regulations are clear. CHADEMA still has an opportunity to sign before the nomination stage starts,” said Njole, addressing participants at the National Law and Elections Symposium, organized to raise public awareness on recent legal reforms ahead of the polls.
The Election Code of Ethics is a regulatory framework guiding the conduct of political parties, candidates, and election stakeholders during campaigns. It prohibits hate speech, promotes peaceful political engagement, and outlines penalties for violations. It falls under the jurisdiction of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) of Tanzania, which is responsible for managing the country’s multiparty elections.
As per the 2024 Electoral Act Amendments, all registered parties must endorse the code if they intend to nominate candidates. CHADEMA, citing concerns about NEC’s independence, has so far declined to sign, demanding broader electoral reforms.
Formed in 1992, CHADEMA (Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo) has remained a central figure in Tanzania’s opposition politics. It is led by firebrand politician Tundu Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and returned from exile in 2023. Lissu has consistently accused the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), of suppressing democratic freedoms.
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CHADEMA argues that the current electoral system is biased and has refused to endorse any framework they believe entrenches the power of the incumbents. Nonetheless, Njole reiterated that the legal window remains open—and CHADEMA’s choice will determine their participation in the October elections.
“The code becomes effective one day before the nomination window. Until then, any party can sign,” Njole explained. His remarks appear to signal both a legal clarification and a political invitation, underscoring that no party is yet locked out—provided they engage in time.
The issue of political space remains sensitive. In recent months, international observers, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have called on Tanzanian authorities to ensure a level playing field in the run-up to the 2025 polls. Arrests, restrictions on opposition rallies, and alleged media censorship have drawn criticism both locally and abroad.
- August 2025 – Candidate nominations: The final deadline to sign the Code of Ethics.
- 28 October 2025 – General Election Day: Voters choose the president, MPs, and local leaders.
- Pre-Election Period – NEC begins verification of all parties’ compliance with ethical and legal standards.
With days dwindling before the nomination process, Njole’s message was unambiguous: CHADEMA has not been excluded, but the clock is ticking. If the party wishes to be on the ballot, it must take the necessary legal step of signing the electoral code.
