Nairobi, October 29-Protests have erupted across Tanzania after major opposition leaders were barred from contesting in the upcoming general election, leaving President Samia Suluhu Hassan facing only minor challengers.
Demonstrations have spread across Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Arusha as citizens accuse the government of stifling democracy and orchestrating an election without real competition. Police have deployed heavily in protest areas, using tear gas to disperse crowds and arresting several demonstrators.
The unrest follows the disqualification of top opposition figures, including those from CHADEMA and ACT-Wazalendo, with the electoral commission citing procedural and compliance issues. Critics argue that the disqualifications were politically motivated and designed to guarantee President Hassan’s easy re-election. Human rights groups and international observers have voiced alarm, warning that the absence of credible opposition candidates undermines the integrity of the electoral process.
President Hassan, who succeeded the late John Magufuli in 2021, came into office promising reform and reconciliation but has since faced growing criticism for tightening control over political activity. Opposition parties claim they have been harassed, denied registration, and systematically excluded from the electoral process.
As tensions escalate, regional and international partners have called on Tanzanian authorities to ensure transparency and inclusivity in the polls. Protesters, meanwhile, have vowed to continue pushing for political fairness and the reinstatement of barred opposition candidates, warning that the election will lack legitimacy without meaningful competition.
