Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured a sweeping re-election victory amid widespread criticism over the exclusion of key opposition candidates, triggering allegations of establishing a one party state and deadly protests, raising concerns about democratic backsliding in East Africa’s second-largest economy.
Landslide Victory Amid Political Repression
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania’s first female head of state, was declared the winner of the 29 October 2025 general election with 97.66% of the vote, according to official results announced by the National Electoral Commission. The outcome follows the disqualification or detention of her two main challengers, leaving her virtually unopposed and drawing sharp criticism from civil society and international observers Modern Ghana Bangkok Post.
Opposition Silenced
The main opposition party, Chadema, reported that its presidential candidate was barred from running, while other prominent figures were detained in the lead-up to the vote. The government also imposed a ban on protests and deployed military vehicles in major cities, including Dar es Salaam and Arusha, to deter public gatherings Bangkok Post France 24.
Violent Aftermath
The election sparked days of unrest, with Chadema alleging that over 700 people were killed by security forces during demonstrations. Independent verification of the death toll remains difficult due to an internet blackout and restricted media access. Protesters reportedly clashed with police, tore down campaign posters, and targeted polling stations Yahoo Malaysia CBS News.
International and Domestic Response
Rights groups have condemned the election as neither free nor fair, citing a “wave of repression” under Hassan’s administration. The president, who assumed office in March 2021 following the death of her predecessor John Magufuli, has been accused of consolidating power and marginalizing dissent within her own Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party Citizen Digital.
Despite the controversy, Hassan’s government has defended the electoral process, emphasizing national stability and economic continuity. A swift swearing-in ceremony was held on 1 November, as the administration seeks to move past the contested vote and reassert control Modern Ghana.
Tanzania Ports Authority headquarters. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Picture by Mr Annael
Sources:
Modern Ghana: Bangkok Post: Yahoo Malaysia: Citizen Digital: France 24: CBS News: CBS News – Tanzania Election Protests
