Tanzania Elections 2024: Who’s Standing and What’s at Stake?

Tanzania prepares for a defining election in [2024/2025], where voters will choose leaders amid economic pressures and democratic tests. As East Africa’s second-largest economy, the outcome will shape Tanzania’s governance, regional role, and development trajectory. Here’s what you need to know.

Key Candidates in the Race

1. Samia Suluhu Hassan (CCM)

The first female president of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, leads the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM). Since taking office in 2021, she has reversed some authoritarian policies of her predecessor, John Magufuli, and prioritized economic recovery. Her likely campaign themes:
– Infrastructure development (e.g., $42 billion LNG project)
– Diplomatic re-engagement after Magufuli’s isolationist stance
– Criticism: Slow progress on electoral reforms and corruption.

2. Tundu Lissu (CHADEMA)

The opposition CHADEMA party’s firebrand leader, Tundu Lissu, is Hassan’s main rival. A survivor of a 2017 assassination attempt, Lissu appeals to youth and urban voters with pledges to:
– Combat corruption and strengthen accountability
– Restore democratic freedoms (press, opposition rights)
– Challenge: Overcoming CCM’s entrenched dominance.

3. Smaller Parties and Coalition Building

Parties like ACT-Wazalendo may play spoiler roles. Opposition unity is critical to unseat CCM, which has ruled since 1977.

4 Major Stakes in Tanzania’s Election

1. Democratic Credibility

• Will reforms under Hassan ensure fair elections?
• Risks: Voter suppression, biased media, or disputed results could trigger unrest.

2. Economic Recovery

• Challenges: Inflation, unemployment, and reliance on tourism/agriculture.
• Opportunities: LNG deals and infrastructure projects could boost growth if managed transparently.

3. Regional Leadership

Tanzania’s stability affects the East African Community (EAC) and trade routes. A chaotic election could strain relations with Kenya, Uganda, and DR Congo.

4. Youth and Gender Representation

• 60% of Tanzanians are under 25; youth unemployment is a top issue.
• Hassan’s presidency broke gender barriers; her re-election could further empower women.

Challenges to Watch

• Electoral fairness: Opposition alleges biased voter registration.
• Security: Past elections saw violence; tensions may rise if results are contested.
• Opposition cohesion: Can rivals unite against CCM’s machinery?

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Tanzania

The 2024 elections could reinforce CCM’s rule or mark a shift toward reform. With democracy, economy, and regional stability in balance, Tanzania’s choice will resonate across Africa.