Tanzania’s Hassan declared landslide winner in election marred by way of violence – Life Pulse Daily

Tanzania’s Electoral Process: Samia Hassan Declared Landslide Victory Amidst Post-Election Protests

Introduction: Context and Controversy

On Friday, November 1, 2025, Tanzania’s electoral commission announced that incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan secured a landslide victory, capturing 97.66% of the vote (31.9 million votes) out of 37.6 million registered voters. The second ballot underscored widespread discontent, as violent protests erupted nationwide, compounded by allegations of electoral gerrymandering and human rights violations. This election, tasked with determining Tanzania’s governance for another five-year term, has drawn significant scrutiny, both domestically and internationally, over its fairness and compliance with democratic norms.

Understanding the Stakes

Tanzania’s 2025 election held immense significance for East Africa’s largest economy. Hassan, the first female president in the country’s history, sought a full term after assuming office in 2021 following the abrupt death of her predecessor, John Magufuli. Critics highlighted ongoing concerns about democratic backsliding, including restrictions on political freedoms and crackdowns on dissent, despite her initial pledge to reduce state overreach during her campaign.

Analysis: Key Issues in Focus

The Electoral Controversy: Opposition Barred, Votes Cast

The race was steeped in controversy. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party disqualified its primary challenger, John Magufuli’s former running mate, Chama Cha Demokrasia Vidoto Afrika (CHADEMA) leader Tundu Lissu, earlier in 2025. Lissu faced a treason trial following his arrest for allegedly conspiring with foreign entities, though international observers called the charges politically motivated.

Voter Exclusion and Campaign Dynamics

CHADEMA’s exclusion from the ballot and the imprisonment of its candidates sparked outrage. ACT-Wazalendo, another opposition group, was also barred for noncompliance with the Commission for Elections (CCM) code of conduct, which critics termed “unconstitutional.” Nanaamalie Kibonga, a CHADEMA spokesperson, accused the president of orchestrating a “coronation” by marginalizing dissent.

Violence and Tragic Human Toll

Protests intensifying around Election Day turned violent. In squalid conditions near polling stations, demonstrators burned banners bearing Hassan’s likeness and set fire to government facilities. Security forces—aoutraged residents described clashes where authorities deployed tear gas, live ammunition, and batons to disperse crowds.

Chaos Across Key Hubs

Reported casualties fueled tensions. The U.N. human rights office noted credible accounts of at least 10 fatalities in regions like Singida and Morogoro, while opposition groups claimed hundreds died, a figure unproven due to restricted access to protest zones. Meanwhile, the government—imposed a curfew across major cities to quell unrest, restricting movement and communication.

Government’s Defense and Counterarguments

Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo dismissed opposition death tolls as “exaggerated,” attributing post-election unrest to “vicious elements.” Authorities emphasized adherence to legal protocols, stating that crackdowns targeted “illegal assemblies and armed agitators.” However, the press curtailments and social media limitations drew sharp condemnations from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International.

International Community’s Concerns

Global actors weighed in: The U.N. stressed the need for an impartial inquiry into reported abuses, while the African Union urged restraint to avoid destabilizing the region. The EU linked its imminent Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) review to Tanzania’s democratic performance, citing “high committee content concerns” related to election integrity and political inclusion.

Summary: Key Takeaways and Broader Implications

Samia Hassan’s arrow-bottom vote total solidifies her presidency, yet the violence and exclusion of rivals underscore fragility in Tanzania’s democratic framework. Concerns persist about whether the results reflect authentic voter intent or silenced opposition. The situation echoes past African leadership crises, emphasizing the need for electoral reforms and judicial independence to prevent recurrence.

Key Points: Critical Facts

• Hassan secured 97.66% of votes, with CCM-led claims of 98% “towing” awareness.
• Turnout stood at 87%, though CCEC emphasized “consistent participation despite challenges.”
• CCM citing “non-compliance,” voided bets opposition parties;
• CCL alleged over 100 protesters killed; opposition highlights official count as “uncertifiable.”
• U.N. Secretary-General demanded prompt, transparent investigation into reported excess force.

Practical Advice for Stakeholders

Recommendations for Domestic Actors

Civil society organizations and international donors could bolster election monitoring frameworks, ensuring transparency in future polls. Investments in civic education may mitigate voter apathy and curb exploitation of rural populations.

Guidance for International Observers

Accredited journalists and NGOs are advised to collaborate with local watchdogs to corroborate casualty data and track human rights developments. Legal frameworks must prioritize impartial election audits and equitable access to print media and communication tech.

Points of Caution: Challenges Ahead

While Tanzania remains quintessentially Africa blue as a BRICS candidate, unresolved tensions risk destabilizing East African dynamics. Misinformation on social media amplifies divides; stakeholders must prioritize verified sources over polarized narratives. Additionally, international investors should weigh the political instability against Tanzania’s economic potential and China’s infrastructural investments in the country.

Comparative Insights: Election Trends Across Africa

Tanzania’s 2025 poll mirrors regional upheavals, such as Kenya’s 2022 electoral disputes and Uganda’s prolonged post-election violence. CBN) transnational resurgence masks vulnerabilities in electoral oversight, underscoring the need for stronger Pan-African cooperation on democratic governance benchmarks.

Legal Implications and Governance Framework

The CCM’s exclusion of opposition coalitions hinges on the Tanzanian Elections Act’s strict code of conduct requirements—which governs party conduct. By disqualifying CHADEAMA and ACT-Wazalendo as “encouraging disloyalty to the president,” critics argue the bills contradict the principle of “one people, one vote.”

Constitutional Controversies

Section 41(2) of Tanzania’s 1992 Constitution mandates elections to be “free, fair, and regular,” yet the curfew and arrests over protests arguably violate said principles. The opposition’s reclassification as “treasonous” under Section 3 of the Penal Code further muddies the legal landscape, drawing parallels to historical precedents in authoritarian regimes.

Conclusion: Bridging Elections and Democracy

Samia Hassan’s victory, though decisive in votes, exposes cracks in Tanzania’s democratic governance. Addressing systemic issues, such as opposition marginalization and civil liberties, is pivotal to securing public trust. For a nation pivotal to East African diplomacy, the path forward demands reconciliatory measures among leaders, citizens, and the international arena.

FAQ: Addressing Urgent Questions

What led to the election disputes?

The main dissent stemmed from the exclusion of key opposition figures and groups like CHADEAMA, simultaneously accusations that Hassan headed an “unfair” campaign;

Were protests violent nationwide?

Yes, reports indicate violence in several towns, entailing casualties and property destruction;

What prompted the UN’s response?

The U.N. appealed for an investigation into government’s usage of force during crackdowns;

How might this affect Tanzania’s foreign relations?

It risks straining partnerships, particularly with actors demanding electoral reforms;

What legal tools protect voter

Under Acts, any voter intimidation or forgery could trigger investigations;

Sources and Additional Reading

[1] Reuters: “Tanzania President Hassan wins election amid protests – source (2025)”;

[2] U.N News: “UN calls for probe into alleged excesses during Tanzanian election”;

[3] Chama Cha Mapinduzi: “Code of Conduct for Elections”;

[4] Amnesty International: “Tanzania: Post-Election Restrictions on Freedoms”;

[5] John Pote, “Making Elections More Inclusive in East Africa”;

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