Tanzania’s political stage is heating up ahead of the October 29 presidential election. On Saturday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cleared Luhaga Mpina, the candidate for the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT-Wazalendo), to contest.
Court Overturns Disqualification
Mpina’s journey to the ballot was not easy. Earlier, the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties disqualified him, claiming ACT-Wazalendo had failed to follow nomination procedures. However, a High Court ruling on Thursday overturned the decision, allowing Mpina to submit his nomination papers.
This development changes the outlook of the race. Without Mpina, incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan of the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) would have faced little competition from only smaller parties.
Mpina’s Message to Authorities
After submitting his papers in Dar es Salaam, Mpina urged authorities to respect democratic rights.
“Opposition politicians and opposition parties are not treasonous and criminals. There is no need to use authorities to punish political parties,” he said.
His statement highlights growing tensions between the government and opposition groups.
Opposition Challenges
Opposition parties in Tanzania continue to face significant hurdles. In April, the main opposition party CHADEMA was barred from the election after refusing to sign the electoral code of conduct. Its leader, Tundu Lissu, is currently in jail facing treason charges.
These developments have raised concerns among human rights organizations. Critics argue that restrictions on opposition weaken Tanzania’s democracy.
The Road to October 29
President Hassan, who has been in office since March 2021, has denied accusations of suppressing rivals. She insists her administration is committed to protecting democratic freedoms.
With Mpina back in the race, voters now have a stronger opposition choice. The October election will be closely watched, both within Tanzania and internationally, as the country decides its political future.
