Presidential vote underway in Tanzania amid opposition exclusions and human-rights concerns

Dar-Salaam ,Tanzanian. Voters began casting ballots in a presidential and parliamentary election that many observers describe as largely predetermined. Polling opened at 07:00 local time and will run until 16:00, with the results expected within days.

Incumbent Samia Suluhu Hassan of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party is widely expected to win a full term, following her succession in 2021.
Significant opposition forces — including the leading party CHADEMA and the ACT‑Wazalendo candidate — have been barred from contesting, reducing the election to a contest among minor parties.

Human-rights groups and observers raise alarm about a crackdown on dissent. Allegations include forced disappearances, arrests of opposition figures, and censorship of digital platforms.
One rights activist described the election as “clearly a sham” given the skewed playing field.

In the digital realm, the campaign has shifted heavily online, with youth-led activism on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram responding to restricted offline space. Meanwhile, the government and its supporters are leveraging the internet for messaging and mobilization.

The stakes are high: beyond the presidency, voters are choosing members of Tanzania’s 400-seat parliament and leaders in the semi-autonomous Zanzibar region.
The ruling party, CCM, has maintained dominance since independence and is working to extend its control amid mounting concerns about democratic erosion.

Analysts will watch turnout, margin of victory, and the transparency of the result-announcement process closely. A low turnout may signal public disengagement or protest. The international community may scrutinise the election for legitimacy and fairness.

What to watch for:

Official early results and the timeframe for final declarations

Reports from polling stations, especially in opposition strongholds

Any independent observer commentary or protests following the vote

Government response to allegations of suppression or irregularities