Tanzania’s Political Climate: A “New Normal” of Violence and Repression Ahead of Elections

Tanzania Faces Rising Political Violence Ahead of Elections

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — As Tanzania prepares for its presidential and parliamentary elections on Wednesday, a chilling atmosphere of fear and violence looms over the nation. Critics describe the current climate as a “new normal,” marked by alarming incidents including the brutal attack on a priest, the discovery of an opposition official’s corpse in acid, and the mysterious disappearance of a former ambassador from his blood-stained home.

Amnesty International has labeled the situation a “wave of terror,” as President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, seeks a decisive victory reminiscent of the 99 percent her party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), achieved in local elections last year. Her main rival, Tundu Lissu, is embroiled in a treason trial that could lead to the death penalty, while his party, Chadema, has been barred from participating in the elections. The only other significant candidate, Luhaga Mpina of ACT Wazalendo, was disqualified on technical grounds.

Father Charles Kitima, the priest who was attacked after a meeting on democracy with faith leaders, expressed his dismay at the lack of government condemnation for the violence. “The police know who attacked me, but there has been no report. Whoever criticizes the ruling party is not safe,” he told AFP from Nairobi, highlighting the chilling reality for dissenters in Tanzania.

The climate of fear is further underscored by the experiences of Abdul Nondo, a youth leader for ACT Wazalendo, who was abducted after an opposition rally last December. “You talk so much — we’re going to kill you,” he recalled being told during his ordeal. Despite the threats, Nondo remains defiant: “If they want to kill me, let them kill me, but I cannot keep quiet. This is my country.”

The Tanganyika Law Society reports at least 83 abductions since Hassan took office in 2021, with 20 more reported in recent weeks. Many victims, like Chadema official Ali Mohamed Kibao, have been found dead under gruesome circumstances. Kibao’s body was discovered doused in acid last month, further fueling fears among opposition supporters.

Adding to the tension, Humphrey Polepole, a former ambassador to Cuba, went missing earlier this month after resigning in protest against Hassan’s government. His family found signs of a violent struggle in his home, including broken doors and blood on the floor.

Despite these alarming developments, the government has not responded to requests for comment, maintaining its stance on human rights and good governance. Critics argue that the current regime mirrors the oppressive tactics of its predecessor, John Magufuli, whose authoritarian rule left a lasting impact on Tanzania’s political landscape.

Analysts warn that the current situation resembles a coup, with the military and intelligence services exerting control over dissent. “We thought Magufuli was a blip, but my worry is that this is the new normal,” one analyst stated, emphasizing the ongoing repression of opposition voices.

While calls for protests on election day have been made, many Tanzanians prioritize economic stability over democratic freedoms. The country has seen steady economic growth, with agriculture, mining, and tourism contributing to a 5.5 percent increase last year, according to the World Bank.

On the campaign trail, Hassan has promised significant infrastructure projects and universal health insurance, appealing to citizens who may overlook the political turmoil in favor of tangible progress. “Citizens are still willing to bet on the ruling party as long as they keep delivering a level of progress,” the analyst noted.

As Tanzania stands on the brink of a pivotal election, the hope for a peaceful resolution and dialogue with the opposition remains uncertain. Boniface Mwabukusi, president of the law society, expressed a desire for reconciliation: “They need to open the door and be ready to sit at the table to find an amicable solution.”

With the world watching, the outcome of this election could shape the future of democracy in Tanzania, a nation grappling with the shadows of its past.