Chadema, Tanzania’s main opposition party, has been disqualified from the October elections after failing to sign a code of conduct. This decision follows the treason charges against its leader, Tundu Lissu, who had challenged the electoral process. The ruling CCM party’s position is strengthened, amid accusations of repression by the government. Lissu’s call for electoral reforms underscores the tensions in Tanzania’s political climate.
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, has been barred from the upcoming elections following its failure to sign a necessary code of conduct. Ramadhani Kailima, the director of elections at the Independent National Elections Commission, confirmed that this disqualification occurred just days after Chadema leader Tundu Lissu was charged with treason. This decision could significantly enhance the ruling CCM party’s prospects of remaining in power after nearly sixty years.
The government insists that any party failing to sign the code of conduct will not be eligible to participate in the general elections or in any by-elections until 2030. Lissu was arrested following a rally advocating for electoral reforms, which he contended are essential for ensuring free and fair elections in Tanzania. Chadema expressed prior refusal to engage in the code of conduct signing ceremony, as part of its ongoing campaign for voting reforms.
As the country prepares for its parliamentary and presidential elections, Lissu was poised to challenge the incumbent President, Samia Suluhu Hassan. Upon taking office in 2021, Hassan received acclaim for softening her predecessor’s authoritarian grip; however, allegations of political repression have surfaced since her governance began.
Opposition parties accuse Hassan’s regime of escalating crackdowns, citing ongoing arrests of dissenters. Despite these claims, the government has commenced an investigation into allegations of abductions linked to political opposition. The CCM party, one of Africa’s longest-ruling, has maintained governance in Tanzania since 1977.
Under Lissu’s leadership, Chadema advocates for electoral reform, emphasizing that genuine change is unattainable without an overhaul of the electoral commission, which is presently viewed as biased due to direct appointments by President Hassan. Authorities have countered that Lissu’s actions disrupt the electoral process and incite discontent, while his legal representatives assert the charges are politically motivated and entwined with broader political conflicts.
In summary, Chadema’s disqualification from Tanzania’s forthcoming elections highlights the ongoing tension between the opposition and the ruling party. This situation underscores the critical importance of electoral reforms, as advocated by Tundu Lissu, but also raises concerns regarding the government’s increasing suppression of dissent. The implications of these developments could reshape Tanzania’s political landscape significantly.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
