Tanzania’s political landscape has seen significant changes aimed at moving away from its historical single-party dominance toward a more inclusive multiparty system. Despite reforms over the past eight years, challenges persist for opposition parties, impacting their ability to mobilize effectively and compete fairly in elections.
Historically, Tanzania operated as a one-party state from 1965, further solidified by the 1977 merger forming Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM). It wasn’t until 1992 that multipartyism was reintroduced, albeit with limited constitutional amendments that left key positions like electoral commissioners appointed by the president.
Recent years under late President John Magufuli saw tightened restrictions on opposition activities, including a ban on political rallies from 2016 to 2023. Although President Samia Hassan lifted this ban and enacted electoral reforms in 2024, critiques argue these changes have not sufficiently addressed structural inequalities.
Opposition parties like Chadema have faced hurdles in gaining substantial electoral traction, with the 2020 elections highlighting allegations of irregularities and a dominance of CCM in parliament. Despite the existence of 19 registered parties, including opposition stalwarts like ACT-Wazalendo, new party registrations have been stifled by bureaucratic processes and a perceived bias favoring the ruling party.
Key reforms sought by opposition leaders include an independent electoral commission, proportional representation in electoral systems, and constitutional amendments for broader democratic freedoms. However, challenges remain with presidential appointments influencing electoral bodies and the powerful registrar of political parties maintaining oversight over opposition activities.
To foster a more democratic environment, Tanzania needs a shift in political culture among citizens and officials alike, challenging the entrenched dominance of the ruling party. This involves enhancing civic education to empower citizens to demand genuine electoral and constitutional reforms.
As Tanzania prepares for upcoming elections, the push for substantive changes continues, driven by the need to level the playing field and ensure fair representation for all political voices in the nation’s democratic process.