Dodoma, Tanzania Election 2025 — President Samia Suluhu Hassan has claimed a landslide victory in Tanzania’s presidential election, officially taking more than 97% of the vote. The results, announced early Saturday, have been met with both jubilation from supporters and sharp criticism from opposition figures and human rights groups.
Hassan, who became Tanzania’s first female president in 2021 after the sudden death of her predecessor John Magufuli, accepted her certificate of victory in Dodoma, the country’s administrative capital. Speaking to a crowd of supporters, she emphasized unity.
“It is time to come together and safeguard what we have built over the past decades,” Hassan said. “We will work to ensure peace and stability across the nation.”
Streets Tense as Protests Erupt
The October 29 election did not pass quietly. Across major cities, including Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro, demonstrators took to the streets. Many demanded a halt to the vote counting process, citing unfair conditions.
Security forces, backed by the military, moved in to control the crowds. Reports of roadblocks and identity checks emerged, and internet services were disrupted intermittently, affecting communication and travel.
The government has not provided an official death toll. However, the UN Human Rights Office said credible reports suggested at least 10 fatalities linked to clashes between protesters and security forces. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for restraint and urged dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Opposition Leaders Barred
Hassan’s main challengers were either barred or prevented from contesting the election. Observers say this left her facing mostly minor candidates.
Tundu Lissu, leader of the Chadema Party, remains jailed on treason charges after calling for electoral reforms. Another opposition figure, Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, was blocked from participating.
Rights groups, including Amnesty International and the International Crisis Group, reported a pattern of political suppression. This included arrests, disappearances, and limitations on freedom of expression. Social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Jami Forums faced temporary restrictions, further curbing dissent.
CCM and Tanzania’s Political Landscape
The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has held power since independence in 1961. While the party’s long-standing dominance provides political stability and rural development, critics argue it leaves little room for genuine political competition.
Hassan’s landslide victory mirrors the kind of overwhelming results seen in neighboring countries where leaders have consolidated power, such as Rwanda under Paul Kagame. Analysts note that while CCM enjoys broad support, particularly in rural areas, opposition voices remain marginalized.
What Lies Ahead
Hassan’s government is expected to focus on infrastructure, economic recovery, and public security. Observers warn, however, that the administration will face mounting pressure to release political prisoners, address human rights concerns, and open dialogue with opposition parties.
For many Tanzanians, the coming months will test whether the government can balance stability, development, and political openness — or if tensions will escalate further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is the Tanzanian election disputed?
A: Many opposition parties and observers cite the barring of key candidates, alleged voter intimidation, and internet shutdowns as signs that the process was not free or fair.
Q: Who is Samia Suluhu Hassan?
A: Hassan became Tanzania’s first female president in 2021, following John Magufuli’s death. She previously served as vice president and has been part of the ruling CCM party for over 20 years.
Q: How has the international community responded?
A: The United Nations and several Western governments have expressed concern about election violence and called for restraint, investigations, and respect for human rights.
Q: What does this mean for Tanzania’s political future?
A: Hassan’s victory consolidates CCM’s control but raises concerns over the narrowing of democratic space and limited opportunities for opposition parties.
Conclusion
President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s overwhelming win secures her second term but comes amid unrest and concerns over political freedoms. Supporters see continuity and stability, while critics warn of an erosion of democratic space. How her government navigates these tensions in the coming months will shape Tanzania’s political landscape for years to come.