Esther Imonmion
Polling stations opened across Tanzania on Wednesday for a national election overshadowed by concerns from human rights groups and the detention of opposition figures.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan is seeking a second term under the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), which has governed the country since independence in 1961. Observers say the vote will test Tanzania’s commitment to democracy and political freedoms.
“I call on ZEC to ensure justice and fairness in everything they do, as citizens are waiting for fairness,” said election observer Maryman Salum Suleiman.
The election comes amid rising tension. Opposition leader Tundu Lissu of the CHADEMA party remains imprisoned on treason charges after calling for electoral reforms, while another prominent opposition candidate has been barred from contesting.
Amnesty International has reported a “climate of fear,” citing verified cases of enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings that it says undermine the credibility of the polls.
Hassan, who completed the term of her late predecessor John Pombe Magufuli, is seeking her first full mandate. Sixteen other candidates from smaller parties are also in the race.
Tanzania has over 37 million registered voters, a 26 percent increase since 2020. However, analysts warn that voter turnout may remain low amid widespread expectations of a Hassan victory.