Amnesty International has accused Tanzanian authorities of carrying out “systematic human rights violations” ahead of the country’s October 29, 2025, presidential elections a vote that will reportedly exclude key opposition candidates.
In a new report reviewed by AFP, Amnesty documented widespread abuses between January 2024 and October 2025, including enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings targeting opposition figures and activists. The findings are based on interviews with 43 individuals among them victims, witnesses, lawyers, and NGO members as well as analysis of media publications and images.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who was initially praised for loosening restrictions imposed by her predecessor John Magufuli, is now facing mounting criticism for her administration’s escalating repression. Human rights groups and opposition parties say her government has intensified its clampdown on dissent in a bid to consolidate power before the polls.
One of the most disturbing incidents highlighted in the report was the September 2024 abduction and killing of Ali Mohamed Kibao, a senior official of the opposition party Chadema. Despite an investigation being launched, no progress has been reported. Similarly, Humphrey Hesron Polepole, a former ambassador to Cuba and government critic, disappeared in October 2025, deepening fears of politically motivated abductions.
Amnesty’s regional director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, condemned the Tanzanian government’s “deeply flawed legislation” that restricts civic freedoms and political participation.
The Chadema party has been barred from the upcoming elections after refusing to sign the Electoral Code of Conduct, while its leader Tundu Lissu remains on trial for treason a charge punishable by death. Meanwhile, Luhaga Mpina of the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT Wazalendo) has also been barred from contesting.
Amnesty has urged Tanzanian authorities to end the repression, ensure accountability for abuses, and guarantee free and fair elections.
