Joseph Isangura
Opposition presidential candidate Luhaga Mpina has formally responded to legal objections that sought to block his candidacy, while simultaneously filing a challenge against the nomination of the ruling party’s candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The submissions were made September 14, 2025, to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which will review the filings and issue a decision in due course.
Mpina’s defence emphasizes that the objections lodged by the Attorney General and rival candidates from other political parties are already subject to review by the High Court, under case number 23438/2025. The court previously ruled that Mpina’s earlier disqualification was unconstitutional, affirming that he had been denied the right to be heard—a fundamental principle of fair elections. According to his team, the Electoral Commission should not rule on issues that are still under judicial review.
At the same time, Mpina has raised concerns over Samia Suluhu Hassan’s nomination, claiming that her party did not follow its own constitutional and procedural rules. He argues that she did not formally submit nomination forms, was not properly endorsed by party members, and lacked approval from central party committees. The Electoral Commission is expected to respond to this challenge in the coming days.
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“The people of Tanzania deserve an election that is fair, transparent, and competitive,” said Mpina’s team. “Our focus is ensuring that the legal process is respected and that qualified candidates can participate without undue interference.”
Observers say these legal disputes highlight broader concerns about electoral transparency and party compliance with internal procedures. With the October 29 elections approaching, the rulings on these objections could shape public perception and influence the competitive landscape.
For Mpina and his party, ACT‑Wazalendo sees the filings as part of a broader political struggle. They emphasize that defending procedural integrity is not just about one candidate, but about protecting the democratic process and ensuring that all Tanzanians can participate in a free and fair election.
