Tanzania's main opposition party, Chadema, is facing a ban from participation in this year's elections after failing to sign a crucial code of conduct document by a set deadline. According to Ramadhani Kailima, the director of elections at the Independent National Elections Commission, Chadema's disqualification follows the recent arrest of its leader, Tundu Lissu, who was charged with treason after advocating for electoral reforms at a rally in southern Tanzania.
The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), which has held power for nearly six decades, may view this latest development as a boon to its chances of remaining in control. Kailima stated that any party that did not adhere to the signing of the code of conduct would be excluded from the general election, and Chadema's ban could extend to any by-elections until 2030.
Despite the ruling, Chadema announced its intent not to participate in the code-signing ceremony as part of its continued fight for voting reforms in the country. Lissu, who had intended to challenge incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan in the upcoming elections, claims that significant changes to the electoral commission are necessary to ensure fair elections, criticizing the appointment of commission members by the president.
Lissu's arrest has raised alarms among political observers, with accusations that the government is intensifying its crackdown on opposition figures, as seen through a series of arrests and abductions. However, the government rebuffed these claims, stating that an investigation was underway regarding reported abductions.
Having been arrested multiple times over the years, Lissu survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and has faced ongoing political hurdles since returning to Tanzania in 2023. The treason case against him has been adjourned until April 24, with Lissu's legal counsel arguing that the charges are politically motivated and part of a broader strategy to suppress opposition.
