Joseph Isangura
Tanzania’s presidential race took a dramatic turn this week after the High Court overturned an earlier decision that had blocked opposition leader Luhaga Mpina from contesting in the upcoming polls.
The Court ruled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had acted unlawfully by disqualifying him without a fair hearing, a move seen as a significant victory for his party.
On Saturday, September 13, INEC formally reinstated Mpina and his running mate, Fatma Abdul Ferej, declaring that they had met all legal and constitutional requirements. The announcement followed days of uncertainty and political tension. During the nomination ceremony, INEC extended a courtesy by offering the pair an official campaign vehicle, a gesture intended to ensure equal footing among all presidential candidates.
However, Mpina’s party swiftly rejected the offer. Speaking at their Magomeni headquarters in Dar es Salaam, party legal adviser Omar Shaaban explained that accepting a luxury car while many citizens struggle in poverty would contradict the values they aim to promote.
He stressed that fairness in an election should not be symbolised by wealth but by access, accountability, and a transparent process.
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Mpina, meanwhile, addressed concerns that the delay in launching campaigns could disadvantage his candidacy. He assured supporters that the 45 days remaining before the election would be enough to reach every corner of the country. “We will travel across all 272 constituencies in Tanzania and Zanzibar. Our campaign is ready, and we will begin as soon as possible,” he said.
Observers say the rejection of the campaign vehicle could strengthen Mpina’s image as a candidate committed to modesty and equality. The stance may resonate with voters frustrated by economic hardships, especially as Tanzania prepares for the October 29 general election. Analysts also note that this decision could intensify scrutiny on other candidates, particularly regarding how they choose to utilise state-provided resources.
With legal barriers lifted, Mpina and his team now face the challenge of energising their base, mobilising resources, and competing against well-established political rivals. His reinstatement has re-energised the opposition’s momentum, and political watchers expect a heated contest as the campaign period accelerates in the coming weeks.
