Tanzania’s opposition party Chadema has been barred from upcoming elections after failing to sign a code of conduct. Leader Tundu Lissu faces treason charges linked to calls for electoral reforms. The ruling party, CCM, benefits from this development, which raises concerns regarding political repression and election integrity in Tanzania.
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, has been disqualified from the upcoming elections due to the failure to sign a code of conduct by the stipulated deadline. This ban follows the recent arrest of its leader, Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges after advocating for electoral reforms at a rally. The Independent National Elections Commission, represented by Ramadhani Kailima, confirmed that any party not complying with the code would be barred from the elections and by-elections until 2030.
Chadema announced earlier its refusal to participate in the signing ceremony required for the code of conduct as a means to pressure for voting reforms. Lissu was poised to challenge the ruling party’s incumbent president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, in the forthcoming parliamentary and presidential elections. Hassan has faced criticism for alleged crackdowns on political dissent, countering earlier perceptions of her leadership as liberal following her ascension to power in 2021.
Chadema’s stance centers on demanding reforms to ensure fair electoral processes, with Lissu asserting that significant changes to the electoral commission’s composition are necessary, particularly regarding appointments directly linked to Hassan’s administration. Accusations have surfaced against Lissu for attempting to instigate unrest, as he currently remains in custody awaiting the next session of his treason trial on April 24. His attorney argues that the charges are politically driven, linking back to a history of persecution.
Lissu has a turbulent history with the Tanzanian government, having experienced multiple arrests and a previous assassination attempt in 2017 that left his vehicle riddled with bullets. Following the controversial election results in 2020, he went into exile but returned briefly and again in 2023, amid claimed reforms promoting increased opposition freedoms, a claim under scrutiny by various groups and observers.
The disqualification of Chadema from the elections illustrates a significant setback for the opposition in Tanzania, particularly following the arrest of its leader Tundu Lissu. This development highlights ongoing tensions between the ruling party, CCM, and the opposition, amid allegations of political repression. With operations constrained until 2030, the political landscape remains uncertain, potentially undermining the prospects for electoral integrity in the country.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
