Tanzanians head to the polls today to elect a new president, parliament, and local leaders in an election expected to extend the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party’s 64-year dominance. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, is widely expected to win after key opposition figures were barred or jailed, leaving her virtually unchallenged.
Major opposition leaders, Tundu Lissu of Chadema and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, were disqualified under controversial circumstances, prompting accusations of state repression and democratic decline. Rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have reported growing restrictions on media, political freedoms, and opposition movements.
Despite initial optimism when Hassan succeeded John Magufuli in 2021, her leadership has drawn criticism for becoming increasingly authoritarian. Authorities have also warned citizens against election boycotts or protests, promising a “peaceful vote.”
Over 37 million registered voters are eligible to cast ballots across 29 regions and in Zanzibar, where the race is more competitive. Analysts say Hassan’s expected victory will secure political stability but deepen concerns over Tanzania’s shrinking democratic space.