When you think about the Tanzania election 2025, the next major democratic moment in East Africa that will decide the country’s political direction for the next five years. Also known as the 2025 general elections in Tanzania, it’s not just about who wins—it’s about whether power will shift, stay locked in, or face new pressure from voters tired of the same old playbook. This isn’t just another vote. It’s the first national election since President Samia Suluhu Hassan took over after the sudden death of John Magufuli in 2021. She’s running for her first full term, and the opposition is more organized than ever.
The ruling party, CCM, the Chama Cha Mapinduzi, Tanzania’s dominant political force since independence. Also known as the Revolutionary Party, it has held power for over 60 years and controls most state institutions. But this time, the opposition coalition, led by the Chadema and NCCR–Mageuzi parties, has united behind a single candidate—Tundu Lissu, a fiery former exile who survived an assassination attempt in 2017. His campaign is focused on corruption, rising costs, and the need for real transparency. Meanwhile, Samia’s team is pushing economic growth, infrastructure, and stability. But many Tanzanians are asking: where’s the change?
The stakes go beyond borders. Tanzania is a key player in East African trade, has massive natural gas reserves, and sits near conflict zones in the Democratic Republic of Congo. How the election plays out could affect foreign investment, regional security, and even China’s and Western nations’ influence in the region. The election will be closely watched by the African Union and the EU, who’ve warned about voter suppression and media restrictions. And while the government says it’s ready for a free vote, independent observers report polling station shortages, internet blackouts in opposition areas, and intimidation of activists.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real reports from the ground—vote counts, protest footage, candidate interviews, and breakdowns of how the economy, youth turnout, and regional tensions are shaping the race. No fluff. No spin. Just what’s happening as Tanzanians head to the polls.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan won 97.66% of votes in Tanzania’s 2025 election, the highest in modern history, but opposition leaders and observers cite suppressed campaigning and unfair conditions, raising questions about the true state of democracy.
