Joseph Isangura
The legal and political spotlight in Tanzania turns to Dodoma on Monday, September 8, 2025, as the High Court of Tanzania prepares to revisit the complaint filed by opposition presidential candidate Luhaga Mpina of ACT Wazalendo.
At issue is whether the country’s electoral body acted lawfully when it blocked Mpina from resubmitting his nomination forms ahead of the October general election.
During a tense preliminary session last week, both sides laid out their arguments, but the court raised objections and steered the matter in a new direction. Instead of hearing lengthy oral arguments, judges instructed that the main case be submitted in writing and handled swiftly. The government was directed to file its responses, and both parties were summoned to meet again in Dodoma’s Main Halls at 8:00 a.m. on Monday to finalize scheduling and set a date for ruling.
Mpina, who spoke to reporters after the hearing, insisted that his legal team had presented strong and convincing points. He argued that existing election regulations clearly outline how candidates may resubmit forms but nowhere prohibit them from doing so. “This action is unprecedented in our country’s history,” he said, calling it an injustice that threatens the spirit of free competition in a democracy.
His confidence has not wavered. Mpina urged his party’s members of parliament and local candidates to continue campaigning without fear, assuring them that “every challenge will be resolved.” He went further, boldly predicting victory in the upcoming poll with more than 70 percent of the vote.
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For him, the court’s decision is not just about his candidacy—it is about whether democratic procedures can withstand bureaucratic hurdles.
Observers say the case highlights the delicate balance between electoral institutions and candidates in Tanzania’s multiparty system. The National Electoral Commission, tasked with organizing the polls, has faced criticism in past elections over transparency and fairness. Mpina’s challenge could set a significant precedent, especially in a political climate where opposition parties often accuse the system of being stacked against them.
As the October 29 general election draws closer, the court’s ruling will carry weight beyond one man’s candidacy. For ACT Wazalendo supporters, it is a test of justice; for the ruling party, it is a matter of maintaining order; and for ordinary citizens, it is a reminder that democracy thrives only when rules are applied fairly to all.
On Monday, all eyes will once again be on Dodoma, where the judges’ next steps could determine not only Mpina’s political future but also the credibility of Tanzania’s electoral process.
