Tanzania’s first female president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, is seeking her first-ever elected term. The vote is scheduled for October 29, 2025.
However, the election is clouded by accusations of escalating government repression.
Hassan initially promised significant reforms when she took power in 2021. Now, critics, including Amnesty International, report a sharp increase in arrests, violence, and disappearances, casting a dark shadow over the vote.
Initial Hopes for Reform Fade
Hassan’s presidency began with widespread optimism. She lifted bans on opposition rallies, signaling a new era of openness after the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli.
That early hope has faded. Critics now accuse her of adopting authoritarian tactics.
For instance, Amnesty International released a damaging report in October 2025. The group highlighted over 200 enforced disappearances since 2019, alongside numerous arrests and alleged killings.
Opposition Weakened by Boycotts and Arrests
Hassan’s Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party is poised to win. The CCM has ruled Tanzania since its 1961 independence.
The main opposition party, Chadema, is boycotting the election.
Its leader, Tundu Lissu, remains jailed on treason charges. Lissu, who survived a 2017 assassination attempt, demanded fair reforms before any vote.
Furthermore, another potential candidate, Luhaga Mpina, was disqualified for rule violations. Consequently, Hassan faces only minor rivals.
Worsening Human Rights Climate
Rights groups report that abuses are increasing. In June 2025, United Nations experts noted a “pattern of repression.”
Activists have also been targeted. Kenyan Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan Agather Atuhaire reported abuse after attending Lissu’s trial.
A former ambassador, Humphrey Polepole, also vanished in October. His disappearance occurred after he criticized the government. Despite public outrage, his whereabouts remain unknown.
The Leadership Style of Samia Suluhu Hassan
As CCM chair and commander-in-chief, Samia Suluhu Hassan holds immense power.
She signaled a consolidation of control by appointing her third intelligence chief in 2024.
Her official campaign focuses on “Work and Dignity.” She also promotes her “Four Rs”—reconciliation, reforms, rebuilding, and resilience—to restore investor confidence.
However, critics argue she has failed to unify the nation. They claim she keeps a tight circle of advisors while sidelining all opposition.
A Nation Approaches a Critical Vote
The public is reportedly frustrated. Many citizens had hoped for free speech and open rallies but now fear reprisal.
“We hoped for openness, but it’s like the old days,” said one resident, speaking anonymously.
This widespread disappointment is expected to cause low voter turnout. Hassan will likely secure her victory on October 29.
Yet, the allegations of repression and the opposition boycott taint the election’s legitimacy. The world is watching to see if Hassan will pivot to true reform or continue CCM’s 60-year iron grip on power.
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