MWE Correspondent
Tanzania is entering a critical political season as it prepares for its general elections scheduled for October 28, 2025, where citizens will vote for the President, Members of Parliament, and local councilors in what could be a turning point for the nation’s democracy.
The upcoming vote is seen as a milestone in determining the country’s future political and economic direction. It also offers an opportunity for Tanzanians to shape policies on key issues such as governance, economic development, and anti-corruption.
The National Electoral Commission (NEC) is currently finalizing logistics to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process, amid growing domestic and international scrutiny.
The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), in power since Tanzania’s independence, has nominated President Samia Suluhu Hassan to seek a second term. Samia, who assumed office in 2021 after the death of President John Magufuli, was initially praised for opening civic space and handling the COVID-19 pandemic more transparently than her predecessor.
However, recent developments — including political arrests and disqualifications — have raised concerns about the country’s democratic health. Most notably, the opposition party CHADEMA has been barred from participating in this year’s election after reportedly failing to sign a mandatory electoral Code of Conduct. This decision has triggered widespread criticism, with many accusing the government of attempting to weaken the opposition.
Tensions heightened further when CHADEMA’s presidential hopeful, Tundu Lissu, was arrested on charges of treason following a rally in Mbinga where he called for electoral reforms. Lissu, a veteran politician and human rights lawyer, survived a politically motivated assassination attempt in 2017 and has remained one of the government’s most vocal critics.
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Human rights organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have condemned the arrest, warning it signals a shrinking of democratic space and undermines the credibility of the elections.
Political analysts and civic groups continue to emphasize the importance of citizen participation. Tanzanians are being urged to turn out in large numbers, stay informed about candidates and policies, and vote for leaders with a clear track record of integrity, accountability, and public service.
This election comes at a pivotal time for Tanzania as it aims to consolidate its middle-income status, attract foreign investment, and expand regional trade under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
With just months remaining until the polls, the stakes are high — not only for the political elite but for millions of Tanzanians hoping for progress, stability, and an inclusive future.
