Tanzania Gears Up for October 29 General Elections
Voters prepare for high-stakes polls amid concerns over opposition participation.
Dodoma, Tanzania. Tanzania is entering a pivotal election season, with general elections scheduled for October 29, 2025. Citizens will vote for president, parliamentarians, and local council representatives.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan seeks re-election under the ruling CCM party, while opposition parties face restrictions and disqualifications that have drawn domestic and international scrutiny.
“The right to vote and contest freely is the foundation of democracy,” said Dr. John Makundi, political analyst at the University of Dar es Salaam. “The current climate raises questions about inclusivity and transparency.”
Media and civil society observers report limitations on opposition campaigning, including denied permits for rallies in several regions. Election monitoring teams are mobilizing to track compliance with electoral regulations, voter registration integrity, and security concerns.
Despite challenges, Tanzanians express determination to participate. Urban voters in Dar es Salaam and Arusha have started attending civic engagement forums, seeking clarity on candidates’ policies, infrastructure development plans, and economic strategies.
The upcoming elections are seen as a barometer for democracy in East Africa, with neighboring countries closely watching how political space is preserved in Tanzania.
Tanzania prepares for October 29 elections with key opposition restrictions, voter engagement, and international attention.
Keywords: Tanzania elections 2025, Samia Suluhu Hassan, CCM, political reform, East Africa politics
