Stifling democracy in Tanzania: scenarios for the 2025 elections

Will Tanzania’s 29 October elections reinforce authoritarian practices rather than promote democratic governance? As Tanzania approaches its general elections on 29 October 2025, there is a significant risk that the polls will reinforce authoritarian practices rather than promote democratic governance. The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, has consolidated power around President Samia Suluhu Hassan and disqualified the main opposition parties from the presidential race. Despite reforms that established the Independent National Electoral Commission, executive influence continues to undermine its credibility.