Tanzania’s six-year ban on political rallies shows how the president’s power can override the constitution.
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The Tanzanian president’s reform drive has endeared her to the populace but will also embolden opposition to her political ambitions.
After years of censorship, opposition parties have to – all at once – rejoin public debates, reorganise and remotivate demoralised supporters.
President Samia Hassan has set Tanzania on a change of course – time will tell if the pattern holds and addresses the country’s challenges.
Hassan is winning party loyalists, and has launched a diplomatic charm offensive ahead of 2025 polls.
The president leaves behind a legacy of extremes, on the one hand, a leader who wanted to create a better country for his people, and on the other, a ruthless authoritarian.
President John Magufuli won a second term by a contested landslide and looks set to take even greater control of Tanzania’s democratic space.
Tanzania’s October poll shows that elections are purely performative for governments which do not adhere to the basic tenets of democracy.
Magufuli took a populist approach in trying to woo voters away from an invigorated opposition, and when that didn’t work he reported to oppressive tactics.
As key opposition members lose seats in their strongholds, it is clear that Tanzania’s ruling party is set to establish a super-majority that will institute a deeper authoritarian agenda.
For all of the shortcomings of Nyerere’s regime, his ideas continue to inspire Tanzanians fighting for a more equal and democratic future, over 20 years after his death.
A united opposition could create enough momentum to unseat incumbent John Magufuli from power.
Top contributors
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Researcher, United States International University
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Lecturer in Politics, University of Aberdeen
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Associate Professor of International Studies, University of Nottingham
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Independent researcher & Lecturer, Tumaini University Makumira
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Associate Professor, Political Science and Global Studies, Universidad de los Andes
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Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, University of East London
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Research Professor, Institute for Development Studies (IDS), University of Nairobi
