Tanzania’s Main Opposition Party Disqualified from Elections

Source: Africa Publicity

Tanzania’s main opposition party, CHADEMA, has been disqualified from participating in the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections due to take place in October. The decision was made by the Independent National Elections Commission, citing CHADEMA’s failure to sign a code of conduct document.

According to Ramadhani Kailima, director of elections at the commission, “Any party that did not sign the code of conduct will not participate in the general election.” The ban also covers all by-elections until 2030.

This development comes days after CHADEMA leader Tundu Lissu was charged with treason for allegedly seeking to disrupt the vote. Prosecutors accused Lissu of calling on the public to launch a rebellion and prevent the election from taking place. He was not allowed to enter a plea on the treason charge, which carries a death penalty.

Controversy Surrounding the Disqualification

The disqualification of CHADEMA has sparked controversy, with rights campaigners and opposition parties accusing President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government of cracking down on political opponents. Hassan’s party, Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has denied any involvement in human rights violations.

Lissu’s arrest and the disqualification of CHADEMA have intensified scrutiny of Hassan’s record on rights as she seeks re-election. The government has opened an investigation into reported abductions, but opposition parties maintain that the electoral process favors the ruling party.

CHADEMA’s Stance

Earlier on Saturday, CHADEMA said it would not participate in the election code of conduct signing ceremony, citing a push for reforms. The party had previously threatened to boycott the elections unless significant reforms were made to the electoral process.

The disqualification of CHADEMA is likely to escalate tensions ahead of the October elections, with the party’s supporters potentially feeling disenfranchised. The situation remains volatile, with the international community watching closely to see how the situation unfolds.