MWE Correspondent
In 1992, Tanzania took a defining step toward political transformation by embracing a multiparty system — a shift led by the country’s founding father, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
At the time, the move was hailed as a milestone in the country’s pursuit of inclusive governance and civil liberties.
This transition from a single-party state gave birth to several key political parties that have since shaped Tanzania’s democratic landscape. Among them are the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), the Civic United Front (CUF), NCCR-Mageuzi, and CHADEMA, the country’s main opposition party.
More than three decades later, the vision of a vibrant and competitive democratic environment is being tested.
Recently, Tundu Lissu, CHADEMA’s presidential hopeful and one of Tanzania’s most prominent opposition figures, was arrested and charged with treason following remarks he made during a rally in Mbinga. The arrest has triggered national and international concern, with rights advocates questioning the health of Tanzania’s democracy.
Lissu — who survived an assassination attempt in 2017 — has consistently called for fairer elections and greater transparency in government. His latest arrest has been described by many as politically motivated. The European Parliament recently passed a resolution urging the Tanzanian government to respect fundamental freedoms and allow a level playing field in upcoming elections.
The situation escalated further when the National Electoral Commission of Tanzania barred CHADEMA from participating in the 2025 elections. According to the commission, the party failed to sign a mandatory electoral code of conduct — a move that effectively suspends its participation in general elections until 2030.
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This development has ignited debates on whether the country is backsliding on the democratic progress it made since 1992. Civil society groups, diplomats, and political analysts alike are warning that the absence of opposition voices in the electoral process risks undermining the legitimacy of upcoming polls.
Back in the early 90s, when Nyerere supported the reintroduction of multiparty politics, his hope was for a Tanzania where political differences could coexist peacefully. His dream was a nation where citizens had the freedom to choose their leaders through open and fair elections — a dream that many fear may be fading.
As the October 2025 elections approach, the road ahead remains uncertain. The government’s commitment to democracy will undoubtedly be judged by its willingness to accommodate dissenting voices, safeguard civil liberties, and ensure that every Tanzanian regardless of political affiliation has a say in the nation’s future.
