Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan formally dissolved parliament on Friday, signaling the official start of preparations for the 2025 general elections.
The move, constitutionally mandated, sets the stage for the nation’s vote expected in October, although the exact date has yet to be confirmed.
Addressing the closing of the parliamentary session, President Hassan pledged the government’s commitment to ensuring a “free and fair” electoral process despite mounting concerns over political inclusivity.
“The government is fully prepared to ensure that the upcoming elections are free and fair,” she affirmed, emphasizing the importance of stability and adherence to law during this critical period.
The dissolution, set to take effect on August 3, marks the countdown to a pivotal democratic test for Tanzania, where the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has maintained power since independence.
However, the political landscape remains tense following the disqualification of the main opposition party, Chadema, earlier this year.
Chadema was barred from participating after refusing to endorse a new “electoral code of conduct,” citing insufficient reforms. This exclusion has raised alarm among observers, with accusations of political suppression echoing across the country.
The situation intensified with the arrest of Chadema leader Tundu Lissu on charges of treason—a crime carrying the death penalty.
Since his detention, Lissu has faced restricted legal access and has recently declared his intention to represent himself in court.
Human rights organizations and opposition figures have criticized President Hassan’s administration, alleging a resurgence of authoritarian tactics reminiscent of her predecessor, John Magufuli.
This criticism was further fueled in May when several human rights defenders, including a Kenyan presidential candidate, were forcibly expelled from Tanzania during a court hearing related to Lissu’s case.
Reiterating her government’s stance, President Hassan vowed to maintain vigilance throughout the electoral period to uphold law and order, calling for calm and national stability amid the heightened political climate.
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