In brief
Tanzania's first female president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, is gearing up for her first presidential election amid allegations of political suppression and declining freedoms. Many observers describe the election as a coronation rather than a competitive race, given the sidelining of major opposition figures and concerns over electoral integrity. While Samia has enjoyed initial support for her reformist agenda, criticisms regarding authoritarian measures have emerged, highlighting a troubling trend towards increased governmental control and diminished civil space.
With no heavyweight opposition candidates cleared to compete in Wednesday's election, many Tanzanians feel the vote is less like a contest and more like a coronation for President Samia Suluhu Hassan, as she faces her first presidential election.
The 65-year-old became the East African nation's first female head of state after the death in 2021 of sitting President John Magufuli. He was admired for his no-nonsense drive to stamp out corruption but criticized for his authoritarian clampdown on dissent and controversial stance on the Covid pandemic.
President Samia, who was vice-president, appeared to represent a fresh change, with her warmer demeanor and reformative policies marking a departure from her predecessor's style. Her four Rs policy—reconciliation, resilience, reform, and rebuilding—has reopened Tanzania to foreign investors and restored relations with international financiers.
However, critics argue that in recent years, political freedoms have drastically declined under her leadership, with increased targeting of dissenters and a crackdown on opposition figures. Reports suggest that abductions and killings of critics are now more frequent, reflecting a worrying trend.
Although Samia’s ruling party, CCM, has maintained dominance in elections since 1992, the absence of significant opposition in the current race has led to widespread disenchantment among the electorate. Major opposition parties have faced barriers, such as the arrest of key figures like Tundu Lissu, who is currently on trial for treason. Voter apathy is rising, as many citizens feel that the electoral process lacks credibility and competition.
Against this backdrop of disillusionment, President Samia’s campaign reflects a blend of promises for development and increasing authoritarian tendencies. Supporters in rural areas view her as a stabilizing force, while urban voters express skepticism over her administration's effectiveness on pressing issues like unemployment and systemic corruption.
As the election approaches, concerns mount over voter turnout and the potential for protests if public grievances remain unaddressed. Analysts warn that the current trajectory under President Samia could further erode Tanzania’s democratic foundations.
For many young voters, the demand for genuine democratic freedoms remains paramount as they reflect on the ongoing political climate – a mix of hope for progress and fear over repression.
