Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema), has rejected the results of the October 29 general elections, claiming the entire process was marred by fraud, intimidation, and manipulation. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) had declared President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party as winners, but Chadema insists the outcome is illegitimate.
In a strongly worded statement, Chadema Secretary General John Mnyika said, “These results have no basis in reality, as the truth is that no genuine election took place in Tanzania.” He accused the electoral body of releasing fabricated figures that do not reflect the will of the people. According to Chadema, widespread irregularities, restricted political freedoms, and state-sponsored intimidation prevented Tanzanians from participating freely in the vote.
The opposition party further alleged that the figures released by the NEC were part of a deliberate plan by President Samia’s administration to manipulate the process and ensure CCM’s continued dominance. “The entire exercise was designed to produce predetermined results,” the statement read.
Chadema reiterated its long-standing position of “No Reforms, No Election,” warning that without significant electoral and political reforms, Tanzania cannot hold credible polls. The party argued that the current system is heavily tilted in favour of the ruling party, making it impossible to achieve transparency and fairness.
The statement also dismissed the legitimacy of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s victory, declaring that Chadema does not recognize her as the duly elected President of Tanzania. “This outcome amounts to a coup against the will of Tanzanians,” the party said, calling on the international community to refrain from acknowledging the results or engaging with the administration.
Chadema pointed to countrywide demonstrations as a reflection of public outrage and rejection of the electoral process. It urged Tanzanians to continue demanding genuine democracy, accountability, and reforms that ensure future elections truly represent the voice of the people.
