Tanzania’s 2025 presidential election is set to unfold without the presence of major opposition parties, a scenario that has not occurred since the country’s transition to multiparty democracy in 1992. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, which has held power since 1995, appears poised to win the presidency without facing significant challenges. This situation has raised concerns among political analysts and civil society groups about the potential erosion of democratic norms and the fairness of the electoral process.
The absence of opposition candidates is attributed to a combination of factors, including strategic decisions by opposition parties to avoid a direct confrontation with CCM and the challenges of mobilizing resources and support in a politically polarized environment. Political observers have noted that the lack of a robust opposition could lead to a concentration of power, undermining the principles of a competitive electoral system. The government has maintained that the election will be conducted in accordance with established legal frameworks and that all registered candidates will have the opportunity to participate.
International observers and diplomatic missions have expressed interest in monitoring the election process to ensure that it meets international standards of transparency and accountability. However, the absence of a credible opposition may limit the scope of oversight and scrutiny, raising questions about the credibility of the electoral outcome. Civil society organizations have called for increased civic engagement and awareness to ensure that the election reflects the will of the people, rather than the dominance of a single political party.