Voters across Tanzania are heading to the polls on Wednesday to elect a new president, parliament, and local councillors. But despite the appearance of a competitive race, few doubt the outcome: President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to win comfortably, extending the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party’s six-decade hold on power.
The CCM—known as the Party of the Revolution—has governed Tanzania uninterrupted for 64 years. And while multiple candidates are listed on the ballot, analysts and rights groups say the field has been heavily tilted in favor of the incumbent.
“This election is more of a coronation than a contest,” said political analyst Joseph Mwaipopo. “The opposition has been systematically weakened, leaving voters with little real choice.”
Opposition Silenced Before the Vote
Human rights organizations have reported widespread intimidation of opposition figures, activists, and journalists ahead of the election. The two main challengers—Tundu Lissu of the Chadema party and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo—were barred from running, a move critics say was designed to neutralize dissent.
Without strong opposition voices, the election has unfolded in a climate of political control. “When key figures are excluded, it undermines public confidence and the credibility of the democratic process,” said an observer with the East Africa Governance Forum.
The remaining candidates, though numerous, lack meaningful political machinery or popular support. Most are expected to draw minimal votes, reinforcing CCM’s dominance over the political landscape.
Economic and Geographical Heart of East Africa
Tanzania, with its vast savannas, world-renowned national parks, and Mount Kilimanjaro—the tallest mountain in Africa—remains one of the continent’s most iconic nations. The country’s economy relies heavily on tourism, agriculture, and mineral exports, including gold and tanzanite, a rare blue gemstone found only in northern Tanzania.
While Dodoma serves as the nation’s political capital, Dar-es-Salaam continues to function as its economic heartbeat, driving trade and industry along the Indian Ocean coast.
Swahili remains the national lingua franca, symbolizing the country’s cultural unity, though dozens of ethnic groups across the country speak distinct local languages.
A Vote That Reinforces, Not Resets
For many Tanzanians, Wednesday’s vote is less about change and more about continuity. President Hassan—who took office in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli—has positioned herself as both a reformer and a stabilizer. Her administration has made efforts to reopen political space and engage international partners, but critics argue those reforms have not gone far enough to level the political playing field.
“This election could have been an opportunity to rebuild trust in Tanzania’s democratic process,” said political commentator Fatma Kweka. “Instead, it’s a reminder of how entrenched CCM’s power remains.”
As polling stations open across the country, turnout will be closely watched as a measure of public engagement in a race where the outcome is already seen as decided.
About the author
Conseil des ministres au Burkina Faso : session présidée par Ibrahim Traoré à Ouagadougou
Le Conseil des ministres du Burkina Faso s’est réuni à Ouagadougou le jeudi 12 mars 2026 pour une séance ordinaire présidée par Ibrahim Traoré, Président du Faso et Président du Conseil des ministres. La réunion s’est tenue de 09 h 00 à 11 h 01 et a permis d’examiner plusieurs dossiers inscrits à l’ordre du jour. Principaux points abordés Au cours de cette séance, le Conseil des ministres a : délibéré sur plusieurs dossiers relatifs à la gestion des affaires de l’État ; entendu une communication orale portant sur des questions d’intérêt national ; procédé à des nominations dans l’administration publique ; autorisé certaines missions officielles à l’étranger. Cette session s’inscrit dans le cadre des réunions ordinaires du gouvernement visant à assurer la conduite des politiques publiques, la coordination de l’action gouvernementale et le suivi des décisions de l’exécutif. Le […]
Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong Thanks Mahama for Appointment as Fire Service Chief
Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, the Chief Fire Officer and Director-General of the Ghana National Fire Service, has expressed deep appreciation to John Dramani Mahama for appointing her to lead the service. Speaking in an interview on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, Madam Ntow Sarpong also extended her gratitude to Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and the governing National Democratic Congress for the confidence placed in her leadership. “I want to use this opportunity to thank President Mahama, Vice President Prof. Jane Naana, and the entire NDC government for the confidence reposed in me and for honouring me with this leadership role,” she said. Commitment to Serve The Fire Chief pledged to meet the expectations attached to the position, assuring both government and the public of her dedication to the role. “I pledge to fulfil my mandate and discharge my duties […]
No Ghanaian Casualties in Middle East Tensions – Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed that no Ghanaian has been killed or injured following the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, as government steps up efforts to protect its citizens in the region. In a Facebook update on Tuesday, March 3, the Minister revealed that he convened a virtual meeting with Ghana’s Ambassadors and Consuls General across the Middle East to assess the situation and coordinate further consular interventions. “This evening, I convened a virtual meeting with our Ambassadors and Consuls General in the Middle East to assess the latest developments and explore further consular interventions towards the protection of Ghanaians,” he stated. Diplomatic Coordination Across the Region Heads of Mission from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Iran and Turkey participated in the discussions. “I am glad to report that so far no Ghanaian […]
IET-GH Marks World Engineering Day, Highlights Engineers’ Role in Ghana’s Development
The Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana has joined the global engineering community in marking World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, observed annually on March 4 and endorsed by UNESCO. In a statement issued to commemorate the day, the Institution highlighted the central role engineers play in Ghana’s development. It noted that engineering remains vital to infrastructure delivery, environmental protection, industrial growth, and technological progress. Engineering at the Heart of National Development According to IET-GH, Ghanaian engineers are providing practical solutions to major national challenges, including climate change, sanitation, energy transition, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable urban development. The Institution reaffirmed its commitment to ethical standards, innovation, and professional excellence, stressing that the country’s long-term growth will depend heavily on the expertise, creativity, and integrity of its engineers. It also encouraged young people to consider careers in engineering, describing the profession […]
Ga Traditional Council Summons KOKA Over Comments About COCOBOD CEO
The Ga Traditional Council has summoned entertainment critic Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, over comments he allegedly made on social media concerning the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board, Dr. Randey Abbey. In a formal letter, the Council directed KOKA to appear before Ga chiefs and priests at the Ga Mantse Palace on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The traditional authorities stressed the importance of his presence, urging him to treat the invitation with urgency and seriousness. “Your presence is respectfully requested to address the matter and offer any necessary explanations. Kindly treat this invitation with the seriousness it deserves,” the letter stated. The correspondence was signed by the Secretary of the Court of Priests of Ga, acting on behalf of the Chief Priest of the Ga Traditional Area.
Ghana to Declare 21 Marine Protected Areas Starting at Greater Cape Three Points
Ghana is preparing to declare 21 coastal communities as Marine Protected Areas in a major step toward restoring marine biodiversity and strengthening fisheries management. The first declaration is expected to take place at Greater Cape Three Points in the Western Region. Once designated, fishing activities within the protected zones will be restricted to allow depleted fish stocks to recover. Part of the Global 30×30 Target The move forms part of Ghana’s commitment to the global 30×30 target, which calls for the protection of at least 30 percent of the world’s land and ocean areas by 2030. The goal falls under Target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework and has been adopted by more than 190 countries. Despite the widespread commitment, progress remains slow. Since 2022, global reviews show that only about 2.9 percent of the ocean is fully or highly […]
Related
Conseil des ministres au Burkina Faso : session présidée par Ibrahim Traoré à Ouagadougou
Le Conseil des ministres du Burkina Faso s’est réuni à Ouagadougou le jeudi 12 mars 2026 pour une séance ordinaire présidée par Ibrahim Traoré, Président du Faso et Président du Conseil des ministres. La réunion s’est tenue de 09 h 00 à 11 h 01 et a permis d’examiner plusieurs dossiers inscrits à l’ordre du jour. Principaux points abordés Au cours de cette séance, le Conseil des ministres a : délibéré sur plusieurs dossiers relatifs à la gestion des affaires de l’État ; entendu une communication orale portant sur des questions d’intérêt national ; procédé à des nominations dans l’administration publique ; autorisé certaines missions officielles à l’étranger. Cette session s’inscrit dans le cadre des réunions ordinaires du gouvernement visant à assurer la conduite des politiques publiques, la coordination de l’action gouvernementale et le suivi des décisions de l’exécutif. Le […]
ECOWAS urges restraint as Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone border tensions rise
The Economic Community of West African States has appealed for calm and restraint from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone following renewed tensions and reported armed incidents along their shared borders. Recent reports say Guinean soldiers allegedly crossed into Liberian territory in Foya District, Lofa County, firing sporadic gunshots and briefly hoisting their national flag on Liberian soil, weeks after a similar confrontation near the Sierra Leonean border in which several Sierra Leonean security personnel were detained. The incidents have sparked fears of escalation in the Mano River Union region. In its response, ECOWAS called on all three governments to exercise maximum restraint, avoid inflammatory statements and resolve outstanding boundary issues through dialogue and existing regional mechanisms. The bloc reiterated that only a comprehensive regional approach can restore lasting security along the Guinea–Liberia–Sierra Leone frontier. The organisation also expressed support for […]
Zambia activates plan to evacuate citizens from Middle East
Zambia has begun formal steps to evacuate its citizens from parts of the Middle East as tensions and security risks in the region continue to rise. Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe said the government is closely monitoring developments and has an evacuation plan ready for Zambians in high risk areas. He explained that the ministry has identified nationals who may need urgent assistance, including families in conflict prone zones, and is working with Zambia’s embassies and international partners to arrange safe routes out. According to him, priority will be given to vulnerable groups such as children, students and people with health challenges, and affected citizens are being urged to stay in contact with Zambian missions and follow official guidance. Haimbe stressed that while some evacuations are still at the planning or early implementation stage, all necessary logistical […]
No Ghanaian Casualties in Middle East Tensions – Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed that no Ghanaian has been killed or injured following the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, as government steps up efforts to protect its citizens in the region. In a Facebook update on Tuesday, March 3, the Minister revealed that he convened a virtual meeting with Ghana’s Ambassadors and Consuls General across the Middle East to assess the situation and coordinate further consular interventions. “This evening, I convened a virtual meeting with our Ambassadors and Consuls General in the Middle East to assess the latest developments and explore further consular interventions towards the protection of Ghanaians,” he stated. Diplomatic Coordination Across the Region Heads of Mission from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Iran and Turkey participated in the discussions. “I am glad to report that so far no Ghanaian […]
Ismaël Sombié à Bagré : vigne, riz et stocks stratégiques pour renforcer la souveraineté alimentaire
Le ministre d’État chargé de l’Agriculture, le commandant Ismaël Sombié, a effectué le 2 mars 2026 une visite à Bagré, dans la région du Nakambé, pour évaluer l’état d’avancement des aménagements hydro-agricoles et suivre la production de vigne et de cultures maraîchères en pleine campagne de saison sèche. Cap sur la production locale de vin À Bèga, le ministre a visité un vignoble de 4 hectares déjà exploités, avec une extension prévue de 6 hectares supplémentaires. Plus de 17 000 pieds de vigne irrigués ont été mis en terre et commencent à produire leurs premiers fruits. L’objectif est clair : lancer une production locale de vin afin de réduire la forte dépendance du pays aux importations. Selon Prosper Zemba, directeur des productions végétales au ministère, le Burkina Faso consacre environ 100 milliards de F CFA par an à l’importation de […]
Dorcas Affo-Toffey Builds New Classroom Block for Jomoro School
More than 400 pupils and teachers at Nana Avoh Nwiah Basic School in the Jomoro Municipality had for years been forced to teach and learn in a deteriorating wooden structure widely described by residents as a death trap. The unsafe building discouraged attendance and affected enrolment, as some parents feared for their children’s safety. Inside, there were no proper desks. Pupils sat on backless benches placed on dusty, uncemented floors. When heavy rains fell, teachers often shut the school because of the leaking, tattered roof. On days it remained open, more than 400 pupils were squeezed into a single classroom considered slightly safer than the rest of the structure. The open design of the building created constant danger. Teachers recalled an incident where a snake fell from the roof into a classroom during lessons. The situation was worsened by poor […]