U.S cast serious doubts on Tanzania’s ability to hold credible election

WASHINGTON,  United States 

The US Department of State Bureau of African Affairs has cast serious doubts on Tanzania’s ability to hold free, fair, transparent, credible, and verifiable elections later this year.

Tanzania has become a police state? Here, more than 20 policemen are pictured arresting Tundu Lissu in Mbinga district. 

In a statement published on X, the American Bureau of African Affairs said it’s perturbed by recent political developments in the United Republic of Tanzania. 

The remarks come barely a week after Tanzanian opposition leader, Tundu Lissu, was dramatically arrested on April 9 this year, shortly after addressing a political rally in Mbinga district in Ruvuma region.

He was later charged with treason at court in Dar es Salaam. He’s currently held in custody pending his court appearance on 24th April 2025 in the non-bailable offence.

President Samia Hassan is nominated by ruling part to contest the presidency position. 

Lissu, the Chairman of the main opposition party (CHADEMA) and the  entire leadership’s entire platform is about demanding reforms to electoral processes and the Tanzanian constitution as the current process favor the ruling party.

"Recent political developments raise serious concerns about whether Tanzania can hold inclusive and peaceful elections." The Bureau stated.

The American Bureau stated that this end, Tanzanian authorities and all political parties are urged to engage in a meaningful dialogue to avoid further escalation and uncertainity during this electioneering period.

"As a longstanding partner of the Tanzanian people, we urge all political parties and government institutions to avoid further escalation, engage in dialogue, and work together to ensure the Tanzanian people can choose their future leaders in accordance with Tanzania’s Constitution."

The Bureau  insisted that free and fair elections conducted peacefully are crucial for achieving Tanzania’s goals of accelerating private sector-led growth, combatting corruption, and expanding trade and investment that benefits all citizens.

The East African country is expected to hold its general election in October this year as the opposition party vowing not to participate is its call for reforms is not heeded by the government.