Tag Archives: #2025 Tanzania elections

Opinion, Politics, Regional

Leadership legitimacy, democratic integrity in Africa: A critical reflection on Tanzania’s presidency

Jones Gadama

The recent statements by former Botswana President Ian Khama have thrown a stark spotlight on a troubling trend in African leadership: the erosion of democratic principles through questionable elections, repression of opposition, and the manipulation of power structures. Khama’s pointed critique of Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan as “illegitimate” resonates deeply with ongoing concerns about governance and legitimacy in the continent.

This critique is not merely an isolated opinion but reflects a broader crisis that demands urgent attention from regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU), both of which have, regrettably, legitimized questionable leadership transitions that undermine Africa’s democratic aspirations.

Khama’s condemnation of Tanzania’s leadership is grounded in tangible realities.

The October 29 elections in Tanzania were marred by widespread allegations of rigging, suppression of dissent, and the arrest of opposition contenders who posed a genuine challenge to the ruling party.

These actions fundamentally violate the principles of free and fair elections, which are the cornerstone of democratic governance.

Yet, despite these glaring irregularities, SADC and the AU moved swiftly to recognize Samia Suluhu Hassan as Tanzania’s legitimately elected president.

This recognition is not only premature but also profoundly damaging to the credibility of these regional institutions, which are expected to champion democratic norms and protect the political rights of African citizens.

The circumstances surrounding Suluhu’s ascension to power further cast doubt on the legitimacy of her presidency.

Her inauguration, which took place in a military barracks rather than a public, ceremonial venue, is a stark departure from the democratic tradition of transparent and celebratory leadership transitions. Inaugurations are meant to be moments of national unity and public joy, symbolizing the people’s endorsement of their leader.

The absence of such a public celebration in Tanzania speaks volumes about the nature of the power transfer—one that smacks more of a coup d’état than a democratic election.

The choice of venue, coupled with the heavy-handed suppression of political opposition, paints a picture of a leader who has seized power through force and intimidation rather than winning the genuine mandate of the people.

Contrasting this with other African democracies highlights the troubling anomaly that Tanzania represents. Malawi’s recent presidential inauguration offers a compelling example of democratic process done right.

President Peter Mutharika’s swearing-in ceremony was held publicly at Kamuzu Stadium, attended by a massive crowd of citizens and notable figures, including former presidents, Bakili Muluzi and Joyce Banda.

The event was marked by both jubilation and respect, even as the crowd jeered the incumbent, underscoring a vibrant political culture where opposition voices are heard and acknowledged rather than silenced.

This atmosphere of political openness and mutual respect is what genuine democracy looks like in practice—leaders are held accountable, and the will of the people is visibly celebrated.

The contrast between Tanzania and Malawi underscores a critical point: the recognition of leadership legitimacy must go beyond mere procedural formalities to include the broader context of political freedom, transparency, and public endorsement.

By endorsing Suluhu’s presidency despite the evident irregularities and suppression, SADC and the AU risk becoming complicit in legitimizing authoritarian tendencies that threaten to derail Africa’s democratic progress.

Their role should be to uphold the integrity of electoral processes, not to rubber-stamp outcomes that emerge from questionable circumstances.

Furthermore, the issue is not confined to Tanzania alone. Khama’s critique extends to other leaders, such as Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, who recently extended his rule at the age of 92.

The pattern is clear: a disturbing number of African leaders cling to power well beyond their mandate, often through repressive means.

This entrenched leadership stifles political renewal, breeds corruption, and alienates citizens who yearn for genuine representation.

The consequence is a continent where governance is increasingly divorced from the will of the people, undermining development and stability.

It is imperative for regional bodies like SADC and the AU to take a firmer stance against these undemocratic practices.

Their credibility hinges on their ability to act as impartial arbiters of democracy and human rights.

Recognizing leaders who come to power through dubious means diminishes their authority and emboldens those who would circumvent democratic norms.

Instead, these organizations should demand transparency, ensure that opposition voices are protected, and support electoral reforms that foster genuine competition and citizen participation.

In supporting Ian Khama’s position, it is crucial to acknowledge the courage it takes for leaders and citizens alike to speak out against entrenched power structures.

African democracy is still a work in progress, but its foundation depends on the insistence that leadership must be earned through the consent of the governed, not seized through coercion or manipulation.

The people’s joy and participation during leadership transitions are not mere ceremonial niceties—they are the lifeblood of democracy.

Tanzania’s current political climate, characterized by suppressed opposition, a militarized inauguration, and a leadership recognized despite these undemocratic traits, exemplifies a worrying deviation from democratic ideals.

It is a distressing development that must be challenged openly and constructively by all stakeholders committed to Africa’s democratic future.

Ian Khama’s critique serves as a necessary wake-up call.

The recognition of Samia Suluhu Hassan by SADC and the AU as Tanzania’s president, given the context of her rise to power, represents a failure to uphold democratic principles.

The contrast with Malawi’s transparent and celebrated presidential inauguration highlights what true democratic practice can and should look like in Africa.

For the continent to move forward, regional bodies must recommit to their roles as guardians of democracy, refusing to endorse leaders who undermine the political freedoms and rights of their citizens.

Only then can Africa ensure that its leadership genuinely reflects the will and aspirations of its people.

Lifestyle, Politics, Regional

Tanzania’s election falls short of democratic standards, SADC mission finds

Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-A preliminary report by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Observation Mission has concluded that Tanzania’s recent general election failed to meet democratic standards.

Led by former Malawian Speaker Richard Msowoya, the mission cited numerous irregularities, intimidation, and an uneven playing field that compromised the electoral process.

The report highlights several concerns, including the disqualification of opposition leaders, abductions, and restrictions on electoral justice and transparency.

The mission also criticized President Samia Suluhu’s role in appointing election commissioners, questioning their independence.

Additionally, the report notes the government’s decision to shut down the internet and impose media censorship, as well as the harassment of observers, further undermined the credibility of the election.

Despite these findings, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been sworn in for another term, with nearly 98% of the vote.

The opposition has rejected the results, citing fabrication and manipulation.

The SADC report’s conclusions are likely to add fuel to the controversy surrounding the election, raising questions about the legitimacy of President Hassan’s mandate.

The international community has expressed concern over the election, with the African Union urging the government to uphold fundamental rights and freedoms.

The United Nations has also called for an investigation into reports of violence and excessive use of force.

Human Rights, Regional

Kenyan journalist Juma Shoka arrested at Kenya–Tanzania Border: Stark reminder of East Africa’s deepening war on press freedom

Burnett Munthali

…..As Tanzanian police detain journalist Juma Shoka during a human rights mission, regional concerns mount over the shrinking space for independent media and cross-border reporting in East Africa.

NAIROBI-(MaraviPost)-Kenyan journalist Juma Shoka has been arrested by Tanzanian police at Hororo, a tense crossing point along the Kenya–Tanzania border in Lunga-Lunga, Kwale County.

The incident occurred on Friday morning while Shoka was on a fact-finding mission accompanied by three human rights defenders.

The team was reportedly investigating alleged human rights violations and cross-border governance challenges affecting communities living along the frontier.

Eyewitnesses told local media that the group was detained shortly after engaging with residents on both sides of the border to document cases of abuse and access to justice issues.

It remains unclear what formal charges, if any, have been filed against Shoka and his associates.

Tanzanian security forces have not released an official statement, further fueling speculation that the arrest is politically motivated.

Reports suggest that Shoka and his team were taken into custody by officers attached to the Tanzania Immigration and Border Police Unit and are being held at an undisclosed location.

Sources close to the matter allege that authorities accused the journalist of conducting “unauthorized investigations” and “interfering with domestic affairs.”

However, media rights advocates have dismissed these claims, arguing that Shoka’s detention is a deliberate attempt to intimidate investigative journalists working on sensitive regional issues.

A Pattern of Suppression Across East Africa

This latest arrest adds to a troubling pattern of journalist harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary detention in East Africa.

Over the past five years, press freedom in the region has deteriorated, with governments increasingly using security laws, sedition charges, and cybercrime legislation to stifle dissent.

According to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia have all recorded declines in media freedom scores.

Tanzania, in particular, ranks among the lowest in East Africa, placed 140th out of 180 countries, a steep fall from its earlier reputation as one of the region’s more open media environments.

Under President Ibrahim Traoré’s leadership, the country has intensified restrictions on both local and foreign journalists.

Numerous reporters have been detained, expelled, or denied accreditation for investigating topics such as human rights violations, corruption, or governance failures.

In 2023, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) documented at least 17 cases of arrests and temporary detentions of journalists in Tanzania.

Among the most notable was the detention of Erick Kabendera, an investigative journalist held for months without trial on charges of “economic crimes.”

His arrest sent shockwaves through the regional press corps and signaled a chilling new normal for Tanzanian media.

The Erosion of Journalistic Freedom

East Africa’s governments have increasingly adopted legal and administrative tools to silence independent voices.

In Uganda, journalists covering opposition rallies have been beaten, detained, or had their equipment confiscated by police.

In Ethiopia, despite promises of reform, dozens of journalists have been arrested under anti-terrorism laws, accused of “inciting public disorder.”

Even in Kenya, considered relatively liberal by regional standards, journalists investigating corruption or organized crime have faced threats, surveillance, and intimidation.

Human rights lawyer Winnie Omondi, commenting on Shoka’s arrest, noted that “the line between journalism and activism is deliberately blurred by authorities who wish to criminalize truth-telling.”

She added that “reporters are not enemies of the state — they are watchdogs defending the public interest. Detaining them only exposes the insecurity of those in power.”

Regional Response and Outrage

The arrest of Juma Shoka has drawn widespread condemnation from both national and international organizations.

The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) issued a statement on Friday afternoon denouncing the arrest as a gross violation of press freedom.

“Journalists have a right to gather and disseminate information without intimidation or arbitrary arrest,” KUJ Secretary General Eric Oduor said.

He called on Tanzanian authorities to release Shoka immediately and unconditionally, emphasizing that “cross-border reporting is not a crime but an essential pillar of regional integration.”

The Defenders Coalition, a Kenyan-based human rights group, confirmed that three of its members were detained alongside the journalist and remain in custody.

The coalition urged the East African Community (EAC) to investigate the incident and develop binding protections for journalists working on transnational issues.

Amnesty International Kenya also joined the outcry, describing the arrest as “a calculated move to silence journalists who shine a light on state abuses.”

The organization warned that the “increasing criminalization of investigative journalism threatens democracy across East Africa.”

Diplomatic Efforts Underway

Kenyan authorities have since engaged their Tanzanian counterparts to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

Foreign Affairs officials in Nairobi have confirmed that they are pursuing diplomatic channels to secure Shoka’s release.

A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Kenya’s government “values bilateral cooperation with Tanzania” but “expects mutual respect for the rule of law and press freedoms.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested consular access for the detained journalist and human rights defenders.

Meanwhile, civil society groups have organized online and street campaigns demanding the group’s immediate release under the hashtag #FreeJumaShoka.

The campaign has gained traction across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, symbolizing a united regional call for media freedom and justice.

The Shrinking Space for Free Expression

Observers say the shrinking civic space in East Africa reflects a broader political regression in the region.

Governments that once embraced democratic ideals have resorted to authoritarian tactics to maintain control over public narratives.

The adoption of cybersecurity and digital communications laws in countries like Tanzania and Uganda has made online expression a new target for state censorship.

In many cases, journalists are accused of spreading “fake news” or “endangering national security” when they publish reports critical of the government.

These legal tools have been used to justify website shutdowns, content takedowns, and the prosecution of media workers.

Regional media scholars argue that this trend is reversing decades of progress made since the early 2000s, when independent media flourished following liberalization reforms.

“Today’s environment is far more hostile,” said media researcher Dr. Peter Mwakitalu of the University of Dar es Salaam. “The message is clear: the state controls the story.”

The Human Cost of Silence

Behind every arrest or closure is a journalist whose work has been silenced — and a community left uninformed.

When investigative reporters like Juma Shoka are detained, the ripple effect extends far beyond national borders.

Communities that rely on journalists to expose corruption, land grabs, or security abuses lose their only avenue for truth.

As a result, ordinary citizens are deprived of vital information necessary to hold leaders accountable and make informed decisions.

In many parts of East Africa, self-censorship has become the survival mechanism for journalists.

Those who persist in exposing wrongdoing often face threats, smear campaigns, and, in extreme cases, enforced disappearance.

The Media Council of Kenya reported that in 2024 alone, over 70 journalists faced harassment or physical assault while performing their duties.

The chilling effect is palpable — fewer reporters are willing to cover sensitive issues like border security, corruption, or ethnic tensions.

Regional Solidarity: The Way Forward

Despite these challenges, media networks and civil society organizations across East Africa are building coalitions of solidarity to defend press freedom.

Journalist associations from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have pledged to create a cross-border rapid response mechanism for detained or threatened media workers.

This initiative seeks to offer legal aid, emergency evacuation, and advocacy support when journalists are targeted by the state.

Regional media watchdog Article 19 East Africa is also pushing for a binding regional charter on media freedoms under the EAC framework.

Such an instrument would require member states to align their national laws with international standards on freedom of expression.

The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, headquartered in Arusha, Tanzania, has already ruled in several landmark cases that criminal defamation and arbitrary detention of journalists violate the African Charter.

However, enforcement remains weak due to political interference and limited public awareness.

A Turning Point for East African Journalism

The arrest of Juma Shoka could mark a turning point in how East African journalists and their supporters mobilize against repression.

As digital media becomes more influential, states are tightening control, but the resilience of independent journalists continues to grow.

“Silencing one journalist will not kill the truth,” said veteran Kenyan reporter Linus Kaikai. “If anything, it exposes the fear of those who want to bury it.”

Calls are mounting for regional leaders — especially within the EAC — to prioritize press freedom as a pillar of democracy, development, and regional integration.

For Malawi, Zambia, Kenya, and Tanzania, where democratic institutions remain fragile, the case of Juma Shoka is a litmus test for the region’s commitment to human rights.

It is also a test of international solidarity — whether Africa will continue to allow its journalists to be jailed for doing their job, or stand together to defend their right to tell the truth.

As of Saturday, November 1, 2025, the fate of Juma Shoka and his three colleagues remains uncertain.

Their detention underscores the dangerous realities facing journalists across East Africa — professionals caught between truth-telling and state control.

In the struggle for justice and accountability, their courage stands as both an inspiration and a warning:

When journalists are silenced, democracy itself is gagged.

Politics

Tanzania plunges into unrest as opposition candidates barred from presidential race

Burnett Munthali

…Protests erupt across major cities including Dar es Salaam after opposition exclusion triggers public outrage, police confrontations, and a nationwide curfew amid escalating political tensions.

DODOMA-(MaraviPost)-Tanzania descended into political turmoil on election day as protests broke out in Dar es Salaam and several other major cities following the disqualification of main opposition candidates from the presidential race.

The move, which many citizens and rights groups have described as undemocratic, sparked widespread anger and led to violent confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.

Crowds of protesters took to the streets demanding the reinstatement of opposition candidates and accusing the electoral commission of manipulating the process to favor the ruling party.

In Dar es Salaam, thousands of people gathered in defiance of police orders, chanting slogans calling for justice and free elections.

The demonstrations quickly turned chaotic as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and mass arrests to disperse the angry crowds.

Similar scenes unfolded in Arusha, Mwanza, and Dodoma, where protesters blocked roads, burned tires, and clashed with law enforcement officers.

Authorities have since imposed a nationwide curfew in an attempt to restore order and prevent further escalation of violence.

The government also deployed military personnel in key urban centers, a move that has intensified public concern about the country’s political stability and human rights situation.

Opposition leaders, whose exclusion from the presidential race triggered the unrest, have condemned the government’s heavy-handed response and called for international intervention.

They argue that the disqualification of candidates violates Tanzania’s constitution and undermines the principles of democracy, transparency, and fair competition.

Human rights organizations across Africa have expressed alarm over the developments, warning that the crackdown on protesters could lead to further instability and loss of life.

Meanwhile, the government has defended its actions, insisting that the electoral process was conducted within the law and that the disqualifications were based on legitimate grounds.

As the curfew takes effect, streets remain tense, businesses are shuttered, and uncertainty looms over Tanzania’s political future.

Observers say the unfolding situation represents one of the most serious challenges to the country’s democratic institutions in recent years, with the potential to reshape the nation’s political landscape.

For now, Tanzanians wait anxiously — hoping for peace, dialogue, and a return to democratic normalcy after a day marked by violence, fear, and frustration.

Opinion, Politics

General Mkunda: Tanzanian Commander winning hearts for choosing citizens over power

Burnett Munthali

In a rare act of courage and restraint, Tanzania’s Chief of Defense Forces, General Jacob Mkunda, has won widespread praise from citizens for reportedly standing with the people during recent anti-government protests.

According to accounts circulating across Tanzania, General Mkunda made the decision to protect protesters instead of ordering the army to open fire, defying expectations that the military would be used to suppress demonstrations.

This act of restraint has made him an instant national hero, with many Tanzanians describing him as a symbol of integrity, patriotism, and justice.

In a political climate marked by tension, violence, and growing public frustration, Mkunda’s choice to prioritize human life over regime loyalty has sent shockwaves through the nation’s power structures.

Protesters had taken to the streets following a controversial election marred by allegations of repression, disqualifications, and arrests of opposition figures.

While security forces in some regions were accused of heavy-handed responses, reports suggest that General Mkunda instructed his officers to exercise restraint and avoid unnecessary bloodshed.

This move not only helped de-escalate violence but also showcased the Tanzanian military’s potential to act as a professional and people-centered institution.

Across social media, citizens have hailed the General as a defender of democracy, comparing him to historical African figures who placed national unity above political survival.

Some commentators argue that Mkunda’s stance represents a defining moment for civil-military relations in Tanzania, setting a new precedent for military professionalism in times of political turmoil.

His popularity has surged beyond the barracks, as ordinary Tanzanians share messages of gratitude and admiration, calling him “the soldier of the people.”

Observers note that General Mkunda’s decision reflects moral strength and deep respect for the rule of law, qualities that are often tested under authoritarian pressure.

It also raises an important debate across East Africa: What is the role of the military in times of political crisis — to protect the government or to safeguard the people?

Many Kenyans, Ugandans, and Malawians have joined the discussion online, contrasting Mkunda’s example with the behavior of generals in their own countries during periods of unrest.

In Kenya, for instance, some social media users have questioned whether their military leadership would stand with the people or the state in a similar situation.

By choosing restraint over repression, General Mkunda has demonstrated that true strength lies in humanity, not in the use of force.

His actions could mark a turning point in how African militaries engage with citizens, reminding leaders across the continent that loyalty to the nation should always outweigh loyalty to politics.

As Tanzania reflects on this moment of conscience and courage, one question echoes beyond its borders — will other generals across Africa follow Mkunda’s example and stand for justice when it matters most?

Politics, Regional

Tensions escalate in Tanzania amid election-day unrest, curfews

Burnett Munthali

….Protests erupt as President Samia Hassan’s crackdown on political opponents sparks national and international concern

DODOMA-(MaraviPost)-Breaking news from Tanzania reports widespread protests erupting across the country.

Citizens have taken to the streets, expressing anger and frustration over the political situation.

President Samia Hassan has allegedly jailed her main political opponents, disqualified others from contesting, and some have reportedly gone missing.

The escalating unrest has prompted authorities to impose a nationwide curfew starting at 6:00 PM East Africa Time.

In addition, access to the internet has been cut off, limiting communication and public mobilization.

International media have been barred from entering Tanzania, restricting independent reporting on the unfolding events.

Observers and critics are raising concerns about the state of democracy and political freedoms in the country.

The dramatic measures taken by the government have intensified fears of further unrest and potential human rights violations.

Analysts note that the situation underscores the fragility of political systems where power consolidation overrides democratic norms.

The international community is closely monitoring developments in Tanzania, urging restraint, dialogue, and respect for citizens’ rights.

The protests and government crackdown mark a pivotal moment in Tanzania’s political history, highlighting tensions between authority and public dissent.

Politics, Regional

Tanzania declares nationwide curfew amid election unrest

Burnett Munthali

….Police enforce 6 PM curfew as tensions rise across the country during a contentious election marked by protests and public anxiety.

DODOMA-(MaraviPost)-Tanzania’s police authorities have announced the imposition of a nationwide curfew beginning at 6 PM following reports of growing tension and public unrest during the ongoing election.

The move comes amid mounting fears of violence and instability as citizens cast their votes in a highly charged political atmosphere.

Security forces have been deployed across major cities, including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Arusha, to enforce the curfew and prevent large gatherings.

Police officials stated that the decision was made to protect lives and property as election-related incidents began to escalate in several regions.

The curfew order applies to all citizens, with exceptions made for essential workers, emergency services, and accredited election observers.

Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement officers as the situation continues to develop.

Reports from local media suggest that protests erupted in certain districts after allegations of voting irregularities and the detention of opposition supporters.

Observers have noted a growing sense of frustration among voters who claim that the electoral process has not been free or transparent.

The ruling government, however, insists that the elections are being conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.

The curfew is expected to remain in place until further notice, depending on the security assessment of the police and electoral authorities.

Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the measure, warning that such restrictions could be used to suppress dissent and limit freedom of movement.

Regional observers from the African Union and the East African Community are closely monitoring the situation as counting begins in several polling centers.

The unfolding events mark one of the most tense election days in Tanzania’s recent history, reflecting deep divisions and uncertainty about the country’s political direction.

For now, Tanzanians are being urged to stay indoors, follow official updates, and avoid any actions that could inflame tensions during this critical period.

Opinion, Politics, Regional

Tanzania’s sham election: A coup d’état in plain sight

Jones Gadama

The elections in Tanzania are nothing more than a symbolic exercise in futility, a desperate attempt by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to legitimize her stranglehold on power.

The deck has been stacked against the opposition from the beginning, with the ruling party using every trick in the book to crush dissent and deny the people their right to choose their leaders.

The arrest and prosecution of CHADEMA leader Tundu Lissu on trumped-up treason charges is a stark reminder of the lengths to which Suluhu will go to maintain her grip on power.

Lissu’s popularity and potential to win the presidency posed a significant threat to Suluhu’s rule, and the charges against him are clearly designed to eliminate him from the race.

The timing of the charges, just as Tanzanians were about to go to the polls, is a brazen attempt to intimidate and silence the opposition.

It’s a move that has been widely condemned by human rights organizations and observers, who see it for what it is – a blatant attempt to rig the outcome of the election.

But Lissu’s persecution is just the tip of the iceberg.

Suluhu’s regime has been marked by a series of high-profile killings, including bishops who have dared to speak out against her undemocratic tendencies.

The message is clear: anyone who opposes Suluhu will be silenced, one way or another.

The African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) must urgently step in to address the escalating crisis in Tanzania.

Their role as regional bodies dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and political stability in Africa compels them to act decisively against the blatant erosion of democratic norms witnessed in these elections.

Failure to intervene risks not only the further entrenchment of authoritarianism in Tanzania but also sets a dangerous precedent for other nations in the region.

The international community should demand transparency, the release of political prisoners like Tundu Lissu, and the establishment of an independent electoral commission to ensure free and fair elections.

Moreover, there should be increased monitoring and observation missions during election periods and swift consequences for any violations of democratic principles.

Civil society within Tanzania also needs support and protection to continue their vital work in holding the government accountable.

Ultimately, without robust regional and international pressure, Tanzania’s democratic institutions will continue to weaken, undermining the will of its people and the future stability of the nation.

The time for complacency has passed; urgent, coordinated action is required to safeguard democracy in Tanzania.

Politics, Regional

SADC chair Mutharika urges Tanzanians to respect elections outcome

Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-As Tanzania prepares to go to the polls today Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has called on all political leaders and their supporters to respect the will of the people and act responsibly through the legal means provided by the laws of Tanzania.

In a statement issued on the eve of the polls, Mutharika expressed confidence in the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) deployed to Tanzania, led by Malawi’s former Speaker of Parliament, Richard Msowoya.

The mission aims to facilitate a peaceful, credible, and inclusive electoral process.

“Tanzania will maintain its reputation as a peaceful nation that upholds democratic principles and conducts peaceful elections,” Mutharika said, expressing SADC’s unwavering support for the country on election day and throughout the post-election period.

Mutharika also urged eligible Tanzanians to exercise their democratic right and vote in large numbers, contributing to the development and prosperity of their country.

The polls will see Tanzanians electing a President, members of Parliament, and Ward Councillors.

The SADC observer mission’s presence underscores the regional body’s commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and stability in the region.

With Mutharika’s call for peaceful elections, there is heightened expectation for a smooth and credible electoral process in Tanzania.

Human Rights, Politics

Amnesty International condemns Tanzania’s crackdown on dissent ahead of October Elections

Burnett Munthali

DODOMA-(MaraviPost)-Amnesty International has issued a strong call to the government of Tanzania to immediately end what it describes as an “unacceptable campaign of repression against dissent” ahead of the country’s upcoming general election.

The human rights organization says it is deeply concerned about the deteriorating political and civic environment as Tanzanians prepare to go to the polls on October 29.

According to Amnesty, the Tanzanian government has intensified its clampdown on the opposition, the media, and human rights defenders in recent months.

The group reports that state authorities have used restrictive laws, intimidation, and politically motivated prosecutions to silence critical voices and suppress open political debate.

Central to Amnesty’s concern is the ongoing treason trial of Tundu Lissu, the outspoken leader of the opposition CHADEMA party.

Lissu, who has long been a vocal critic of government corruption and human rights abuses, faces charges that many observers believe are politically motivated.

The organization also highlighted the disqualification of opposition presidential candidate Luhaga Mpina, which it described as another example of the government’s deliberate efforts to narrow the political space.

Amnesty International believes these actions are not isolated incidents but part of a calculated strategy to instill fear among citizens and prevent meaningful civic participation.

The group warns that this growing repression threatens to erode Tanzania’s democratic foundations and entrench authoritarian rule under the guise of electoral legitimacy.

Amnesty has called on the international community, regional bodies, and human rights organizations to closely monitor developments in Tanzania and pressure the government to uphold democratic principles.

The organization insists that the rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association must be respected and that all candidates should be allowed to campaign freely and fairly.

As the October 29 election draws closer, Amnesty International’s warning underscores growing fears that the Tanzanian government’s tightening grip on dissent could compromise the credibility of the entire electoral process.