NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) – The opposition party Chadema in Tanzania has called for the establishment of a transitional government following the disputed election held on October 29, 2023. Chadema claims it was barred from participating in the election, asserting that the current government lacks legitimacy.
John Heche, the vice chair of Chadema, stated that the ruling party’s overwhelming victory, where it secured more than 97% of the votes, renders the election null and void. He urged for the dissolution of the Tanzanian electoral body, declaring, "The entire election is invalid, and it has no legitimacy because it took place under gross violations of the law, justice, and democratic principles."
The election, which has been met with severe criticism, sparked several days of violent protests resulting in hundreds of deaths and the arrest of over 2,000 individuals. The unrest reflects the deep-seated tensions regarding Tanzania's political landscape and the perceived unfairness of the electoral process.
Amidst this chaos, Tanzanian activists had planned a follow-up protest earlier this week. However, human rights organizations reported a significant crackdown by law enforcement, with police being heavily deployed in major cities to suppress any dissent. This reaction highlights the government’s sensitivity to public opposition and its efforts to maintain control.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has assessed that Tanzania’s recent election did not meet democratic standards, citing irregularities, restricted access for political party agents, and reports of voters being unable to cast their ballots. These factors undermine the credibility of the electoral process and raise concerns about the integrity of Tanzania’s democracy.
In a move that prompted critical condemnation, the government also shut down internet connections on election day, which lasted for ten days afterward. This action has fueled alarm among human rights organizations, emphasizing the extent to which the government has gone to limit communication and information-sharing during a crucial political moment.
Chadema's chairperson, Tundu Lissu, remains imprisoned since April 2023 after being arrested and charged with treason for his calls for electoral reforms. His continued detention has come to symbolize broader issues of political repression in Tanzania and has drawn international attention regarding the country’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.
Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who emerged victorious in the election, has promised to foster national unity during her inauguration speech. However, she attributed the violence during the election period to foreign interference, a stance that has been met with skepticism by critics who argue that the issues stem from internal governance failings.
As the political crisis deepens in Tanzania, the call for a transitional government and fresh elections overseen by international bodies underscores the challenges faced by the nation in its quest for a more democratic and participatory political environment. The outlook remains uncertain as tensions persist between the government and opposition forces, raising serious questions about the future of democracy in Tanzania.
