Tanzania Elections: CHADEMA Barred!

THE AFRICA TIMES | TANZANIA — Tanzania’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has barred CHADEMA from the upcoming general elections. These elections are scheduled for October. The electoral body cited the party’s failure to sign a mandatory code of conduct. Electoral Commission Announcement Ramadhani Kailima, Director of Elections at INEC, made the announcement on Saturday, April 12. He stated this during a press briefing in Dar es Salaam. Kailima stated CHADEMA’s refusal effectively nullifies its participation in presidential and parliamentary races. “Any party that did not sign the code of conduct will not participate in the general election,” Kailima said. He further noted the exclusion extends to all by-elections until 2030. The electoral code is mandatory for all participating parties. Treason Charges Against CHADEMA Leader The decision follows treason charges against CHADEMA’s leader, Tundu Lissu. Lissu is a former presidential candidate. Prosecutors allege Lissu incited the public to rebel and obstruct the election. The charge carries the death penalty and prevented Lissu from entering a plea. Political Context and Accusations The electoral ban will likely escalate tensions around President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration. Rights groups and opposition figures accuse her government of tightening its grip on dissent. Critics point to harassment, disappearances, and killings of opposition supporters over the past year. Authorities have consistently denied these claims and insist investigations are ongoing. They maintain that the government upholds human rights. Despite these assurances, concerns over political freedom persist. CHADEMA’s Position CHADEMA had refused to attend Saturday’s signing ceremony. The opposition party has long argued that the electoral system favors the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. CHADEMA has repeatedly demanded comprehensive reforms before future elections. As of this report, CHADEMA has not issued an official response to its disqualification. The party’s next move remains to be seen.