Chadema, Tanzania’s main opposition party, has been disqualified from the upcoming election for not signing the electoral code of conduct. The party’s leader, Tundu Lissu, faces treason charges following a rally demanding electoral reforms. The ruling CCM party’s control is likely strengthened by these developments, which have provoked concerns over the state of democracy and political repression in Tanzania.
Chadema, Tanzania’s primary opposition party, has been barred from participating in the upcoming general election due to its refusal to sign the electoral code of conduct. This disqualification was confirmed by Ramadhani Kailima, the director of elections at the Independent National Elections Commission (INEC), following a deadline on Saturday. Consequently, Chadema will not be able to contest in the parliamentary and presidential elections scheduled for October.
Kailima emphasized the gravity of the situation by stating, “Any party that hasn’t signed today will not be allowed to take part in the general election or any other elections for the next five years.” This declaration followed Chadema’s announcement that its secretary-general, John Mnyika, would boycott the INEC meeting to sign the code, protesting the lack of adequate responses to their demands for essential electoral reforms.
Recent events have placed Chadema under significant pressure, especially after its leader, Tundu Lissu, was charged with treason following a rally where he called for electoral reforms. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, which has been in power since 1977, likely stands to gain from sidestepping the opposition, especially after their success in local elections. Chadema has claimed electoral manipulation and plans to petition the high court for reform before the elections.
Representatives from Chadema have accused President Samia Suluhu Hassan of reverting to repressive tactics akin to those of her late predecessor, John Magufuli. The party’s legal counsel, Rugemeleza Nshalla, stated that Lissu’s arrest aimed to silence dissenting voices against the electoral system, claiming, “What happened put a stop to the party’s campaign… and now, the government has decided to silence them by banning gatherings and charging Tundu Lissu with treason.”
Initially, President Hassan was commended for loosening some of Magufuli’s authoritarian measures after assuming power in 2021. However, recent actions, including the arrest of Chadema officials and the persecution of opposition politicians, have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and international observers, who view such moves as a return to authoritarianism in Tanzanian politics.
In conclusion, Chadema’s barring from the upcoming election underscores significant political tensions within Tanzania. The refusal to sign the electoral code, coupled with the arrest of Tundu Lissu, highlights a troubling environment for opposition parties. As the ruling CCM party consolidates its power, the demand for electoral reforms by Chadema remains unmet, raising concerns about the integrity of Tanzania’s democratic processes and the future of political dissent in the nation.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
