A coalition of East African civil society organizations has condemned what they describe as a “sham election” in Tanzania, citing escalating human rights violations, suppression of political opposition, and widespread state-sponsored violence.
Speaking under the banner Jumuiya Ni Yetu, the activists said the unfolding events in Tanzania go against the founding principles of the East African Community (EAC), including democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights. They called for regional solidarity, stating, “Borders will not limit our brotherhood and sisterhood. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
According to the coalition, there are no legitimate elections taking place in Tanzania, as President Samia Suluhu Hassan faces no real opposition following the detention and disqualification of her main challengers. The main opposition party, CHADEMA, and its leader Tundu Lissu, have faced arrests, harassment, and bans from political activity, with Lissu recently charged with treason for demanding electoral reforms.
The statement further accuses Tanzanian authorities of a “silent epidemic” of abductions, torture, rape, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances, particularly targeting opposition figures, journalists, and religious leaders critical of the government. Amnesty International’s latest report, “Wave of Terror Sweeps Across Tanzania,” also highlights intensified repression and unchecked abuses ahead of the election.
Religious institutions have reportedly come under attack, including the deregistration of the Ufufuo na Uzima Church, led by Bishop Josephat Gwajima, following his criticism of the government. Several clergy members, activists, and journalists have either fled the country or gone missing under mysterious circumstances.
The coalition also denounced the restrictions on international media and observers, noting that most Western nations and organizations have withdrawn their election missions, leaving only limited monitoring by the African Union and European Union representatives.
In their joint statement, groups including the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), PAWA 254, Vocal Africa, and the Pan-African Progressive Leaders Network declared solidarity with Tanzanians, vowing to resist authoritarianism across the region.
“As despots regroup to oppress citizens, we, as citizens, are regrouping to reclaim our countries and our inherent freedoms,” the statement concluded.
