Caption: Civil society activists in Nairobi address journalists on Wednesday, condemning Tanzania’s election as a sham and urging regional bodies to defend democracy.
By Njoroge David
Kenyan and regional human-rights groups accuse Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu’s administration of staging a sham election, alleging a sweeping crackdown on opposition leaders, activists and journalists ahead of Thursday’s vote
Polling stations across Tanzania opened today as the country holds a general election to choose a president, members of parliament and local councillors.
In a joint statement released Wednesday, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and allied civic groups described the polls as “a coronation disguised as democracy,” saying Suluhu faces no real challenger after her main opponents were detained or barred from contesting
“There are no elections happening in Tanzania tomorrow,” said the KHRC, adding, “What is unfolding is not an election but a war against citizens.”
They alleged that over 250 enforced disappearances, torture and extrajudicial killings have been documented, most targeting members of the opposition Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) party and critics of Suluhu’s rule.
CHADEMA’s leader and presidential hopeful, Tundu Lissu, was arrested and charged with treason after demanding electoral reforms.
The party has since been banned from campaigning. Several of its members and supporters reportedly endured torture while in detention.
The statement also alleged that religious leaders have been targeted. It cited the deregistration of the Ufufuo na Uzima Church, led by Bishop Josephat Gwajima, after he criticised the government for abductions and disappearances. Other church leaders, including Bishop Dickson Kabigumila, have fled the country, citing threats to their lives.
Rights groups further accused Tanzanian authorities of blocking media coverage and expelling foreign journalists and election observers. Belgium, Germany, Ireland and Sweden have withdrawn their observer missions.
The United States and the United Nations Development Programme are not officially deploying monitors.
“The African Union and East African Community cannot claim to promote democracy while turning a blind eye to human-rights violations in Tanzania,” noted the coalition, which includes Vocal Africa, PAWA 254 and the Pan-African Progressive Leaders Network.
“The outcome was fixed the moment Suluhu strangled all opposition, silenced the media and shut down political space,” noted the statement, adding, “What, exactly, is there to observe in a coronation?”
