Dar es Salaam:  Tanzania is set to hold its general elections on October 29, but concerns over fairness and transparency have overshadowed the vote, as the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party appears poised to extend its seven-decade grip on power.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who took office in 2021 after the death of John Magufuli, is widely expected to win re-election. However, her path to victory comes amid accusations of political repression, opposition exclusion, and restrictions on civil liberties. Human rights groups and international observers have warned that the country’s democratic credibility is at risk.

The country’s main opposition party, CHADEMA, led by Tundu Lissu, has been disqualified from contesting the election after reportedly failing to comply with the national electoral code of conduct. Lissu himself faces treason charges and remains in detention, further deepening the opposition’s crisis. Other smaller opposition parties have complained of intimidation, arrests, and limited access to campaign venues.

Amnesty International and local rights organizations have reported a rise in politically motivated disappearances and arrests in recent months. Civil society groups describe a “climate of fear” that has made open political discourse nearly impossible. Journalists have faced harassment, and several independent media outlets say they are under pressure to avoid covering opposition rallies.

Adding to the tension, the government earlier this year blocked access to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, citing cyberattacks on official accounts. Critics argue the move was part of a wider effort to control information ahead of the vote.

Regional and international bodies have taken note of the growing unease. The East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have deployed observation missions to monitor the electoral process. Their presence underscores regional concern about the credibility of the upcoming polls.

Political analysts warn that the expected CCM victory could deepen public disillusionment, especially among the country’s youth, who make up a large portion of the population. Low voter turnout is anticipated, as many citizens feel that the outcome is already predetermined.

While Tanzania remains one of East Africa’s most stable nations, experts caution that suppressing opposition voices may come at a cost. The erosion of democratic freedoms could undermine investor confidence and weaken the nation’s long-term political and economic prospects.

As election day approaches, Tanzanians find themselves weighing stability against freedom a choice that may shape the country’s democratic future for years to come.