Chadema, Tanzania’s main opposition party, has been disqualified from upcoming elections for refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct. This decision follows the treason charge against its leader Tundu Lissu after calling for electoral reforms. The ruling party, CCM, remains in power since 1977, while allegations of electoral manipulation and repression persist against the government.
The Chadema party, Tanzania’s primary opposition group, has been barred from participating in the upcoming general election, as announced by Ramadhani Kailima, the director of elections at the Independent National Elections Commission (INEC). This disqualification stems from Chadema’s refusal to sign the mandated electoral code of conduct by the deadline of Saturday.
Kailima emphasized, “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.” He further confirmed that there would be no additional opportunities provided to the party.
In a statement, Chadema revealed that secretary-general John Mnyika would not attend the INEC meeting aimed at signing the code, arguing this decision was based on the absence of a written response to their calls for essential electoral reforms. This comes in light of Chadema leader Tundu Lissu being recently charged with treason after advocating for voting reforms during a rally.
The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has been in power since 1977, and these developments may enhance its position in the elections. Chadema claims that local elections held last year were manipulated and intends to seek judicial intervention for electoral reforms. The party criticized President Samia Suluhu Hassan for resorting to the oppressive strategies of former President John Magufuli.
Lissu had previously indicated that Chadema would obstruct the elections through confrontation if their demands for reform were not met. The longstanding opposition demands have been largely overlooked by the ruling party. Rugemeleza Nshalla, a lawyer for Chadema, remarked that Lissu’s arrest was strategically aimed at silencing dissenting opinions. He stated, “What happened put a stop to the party’s campaign, which was trying to inform the public about a rigged electoral system designed to favor those in power.”
Since her ascension to power in 2021 following Magufuli’s death, Hassan received initial praise for her more liberal approach. However, the international community has raised concerns regarding renewed oppression, noting arrests of opposition members, as well as reported abductions and killings of dissenters.
The disqualification of Chadema from the upcoming elections marks a significant escalation in Tanzania’s political climate, particularly following the arrest of its leader Tundu Lissu. The refusal to engage in electoral reforms has intensified accusations against the ruling party, CCM, regarding manipulative practices and repression of dissent. The situation reflects ongoing tensions between governmental authority and opposition voices, casting doubt on the transparency and fairness of Tanzania’s electoral process.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
