Tanzania’s NEC bars CHADEMA from 2025 elections after code breach, heightening fears of declining political freedoms under Suluhu.
Tanzania’s Independent National Electoral Commission (NEC) has disqualified CHADEMA, the country’s main opposition party, from the October 2025 general elections. The move follows CHADEMA’s failure to sign the mandatory electoral code of conduct by the official deadline.
“Any party that did not sign the code of conduct will not participate in the general election,” said NEC Director Ramadhani Kailima.
He confirmed that the disqualification applies to all elections—including by-elections—until 2030, effectively sidelining CHADEMA from the political process for the next five years.
⚖️ CHADEMA Leader Faces Treason Charges
The ban comes shortly after CHADEMA’s leader, Tundu Lissu, was charged with treason on April 10, 2025. Authorities allege that he incited rebellion intended to disrupt the upcoming elections.
Lissu was arrested in Ruvuma following a political rally and remains in custody. His legal team has yet to issue a public statement.
🚫 Opposition Claims Crackdown, Boycott Looms
While CHADEMA has not officially responded to the NEC’s ruling, the party had earlier hinted at a boycott of the 2025 vote, claiming the process unfairly favors the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
Several human rights organizations have accused President Samia Suluhu Hassan‘s government of cracking down on dissent, citing reports of abductions, harassment, and extrajudicial killings.
The government denies these accusations and maintains that it is conducting investigations.
🗳️ Democratic Integrity in Question
The exclusion of CHADEMA from the ballot has raised concerns about the state of democracy in Tanzania. Analysts warn that barring the main opposition party from participation could undermine the credibility of the 2025 elections.
“Removing a major opposition party ahead of a national vote damages the perception of fairness and competitiveness,” said a political analyst in Dar es Salaam.
📌 Explore more in our Tanzania Politics Hub or view our timeline on opposition crackdowns since 2020.
