Chadema, Tanzania’s top opposition party, has been disqualified from upcoming elections after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct. This decision follows the arrest of its leader, Tundu Lissu, who was charged with treason. The ruling CCM party is poised to strengthen its hold on power amid allegations of electoral manipulation and repression of dissenting voices.
Tanzania’s leading opposition party, Chadema, has been disqualified from participating in the upcoming general elections due to its refusal to sign the electoral code of conduct mandated by the government. This announcement was made by Ramadhani Kailima, the director of elections from the Independent National Elections Commission (INEC). Chadema’s noncompliance means that they will not be permitted to contest in the parliamentary and presidential elections scheduled for October.
Kailima emphasized that any party that did not sign the code of conduct by the deadline would be excluded from the elections for five years, stating, “There will be no second chance.” Previously, Chadema announced that their secretary-general, John Mnyika, would not attend the INEC meeting because they are advocating for necessary voting reforms, citing a lack of response to their demands.
Compounding the situation, Chadema’s leader, Tundu Lissu, faced treason charges following recent calls for electoral reforms at a rally. Lissu’s arrest is viewed as an effort to stifle dissent within the party, which the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has governed since 1977.
Chadema has accused the CCM of electoral manipulation, especially during local elections last year, and plans to seek judicial intervention for electoral reforms ahead of the imminent elections. Lissu threatened that Chadema would obstruct the elections unless the electoral system underwent significant changes.
The current regime under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who took office in 2021, was initially seen as a relief from previous authoritarian policies. However, her government has faced criticism for a resurgence of repression against political oppositions, including arrests and other violent actions against Chadema members. These developments could further solidify CCM’s dominance in Tanzanian politics as opposition voices are systematically marginalized.
Chadema’s disqualification from the upcoming elections represents a significant setback for opposition in Tanzania, following the refusal to adhere to government-established electoral guidelines. The arrest of Tundu Lissu underscores ongoing tensions as the ruling CCM party consolidates its power amidst accusations of electoral manipulation. The opposition’s demands for reforms remain largely ignored, heightening concerns regarding democratic processes in the country.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
