By : Lloyd Mahachi
Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has officially nominated President Samia Suluhu Hassan as its candidate for the upcoming presidential elections in October. This move solidifies Hassan’s bid to extend her leadership of the East African nation. The nomination was made during the party’s national congress, where Hassan was endorsed as the party’s flag bearer.
Hassan, who took office in 2021 following the sudden death of her predecessor, John Magufuli, has called for unity ahead of the elections. She urged Tanzanians to maintain their unity, acknowledging that the polls can be divisive. Hassan expressed confidence that the country will remain united, now that candidates have been nominated. Her call for unity is seen as an effort to calm tensions and promote peaceful elections.
During her presidency, Hassan has implemented significant changes, reversing some of Magufuli’s repressive measures. Initially, she was praised for easing restrictions on the opposition and media. However, human rights groups and Western governments have criticized her administration for renewed crackdowns on dissent. The government has been accused of restricting freedom of expression, assembly, and association.
The main opposition party, Chadema, has faced significant challenges, including the detention of its politicians and the abduction and murder of opposition figures. Despite these challenges, Chadema is yet to select its candidate for president. Last year, the party threatened to boycott the elections unless electoral reforms are implemented, a request that has been consistently ignored by Hassan’s party.
As Tanzania prepares for the October elections, the country is bracing for a heated political season. The polls will test Tanzania’s commitment to democracy and unity. Hassan’s nomination has set the stage for a competitive election, with opposition parties gearing up to challenge her bid for reelection. The election is expected to be closely contested, with many Tanzanians eager to exercise their democratic right.
Dorothy Semu, leader of the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT Wazalendo), has already declared her intent to challenge Hassan. Chadema is expected to elect a new party president soon, who will likely be the party’s presidential candidate. The stage is set for a thrilling election season in Tanzania, with many expecting a fierce contest between Hassan and her opponents.
The international community is watching the Tanzanian elections closely, with many organizations calling for free, fair, and peaceful polls. The European Union, the United States, and other Western governments have expressed concerns about the pre-election environment, citing restrictions on opposition parties and civil society organizations.
In response to these concerns, Hassan’s government has assured the international community that the elections will be conducted in a free and fair manner. The government has also pledged to ensure the safety and security of all citizens during the election period. As the election season heats up, all eyes are on Tanzania, with many hoping for a peaceful and democratic transfer of power.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
