Tanzania holds a general election on Wednesday, with President Samia Hassan expected to consolidate power amid widespread suppression of opposition voices. Main opposition candidates have been disqualified from the ballot, political gatherings have been banned, and critics have been subjected to arrests and abductions.
Hassan initially reversed authoritarian policies after taking office in 2021 following predecessor John Magufuli's death. She lifted restrictions on political rallies and sought reconciliation with opposition groups, earning praise domestically and internationally before reversing course.
United Nations experts documented over 200 enforced disappearances since 2019 and called on authorities to halt such practices. Recent abductions have intensified public anger, with victims ranging from opposition figures to government critics and a former ambassador who spoke against Hassan's administration.
Opposition leaders Tundu Lissu of Chadema and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo were disqualified, leaving Hassan facing only minor party candidates. Observers note the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party and its predecessor have governed since Tanzania's independence in 1961. More than 37 million people can vote for president, parliament members, and local officials.
Hassan initially reversed authoritarian policies after taking office in 2021 following predecessor John Magufuli's death. She lifted restrictions on political rallies and sought reconciliation with opposition groups, earning praise domestically and internationally before reversing course.
United Nations experts documented over 200 enforced disappearances since 2019 and called on authorities to halt such practices. Recent abductions have intensified public anger, with victims ranging from opposition figures to government critics and a former ambassador who spoke against Hassan's administration.
Opposition leaders Tundu Lissu of Chadema and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo were disqualified, leaving Hassan facing only minor party candidates. Observers note the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party and its predecessor have governed since Tanzania's independence in 1961. More than 37 million people can vote for president, parliament members, and local officials.
