Tanzania's Election Aftermath: Governance Challenges and Institutional Reflections

A Scrutiny of Tanzania's Recent Electoral Process

In October 2025, Tanzania's general election resulted in the re-election of President Samia Suluhu Hassan with a remarkable 97.66% of the vote. This outcome, however, has prompted significant public and media scrutiny over the electoral process and its aftermath. Large-scale demonstrations erupted following the announcement, leading to a violent escalation and tragic loss of life. This article examines the governance and institutional dynamics at play, exploring the systemic factors that have come under examination as a result of these events.

What Is Established

• President Samia Suluhu Hassan was re-elected with 97.66% of the vote in the October 2025 election.
• Following the election results, widespread protests took place across Tanzania.
• The protests resulted in violence, with reports of numerous casualties, predominantly caused by the intervention of security forces using live ammunition.
• The election results and subsequent events have drawn considerable attention from both national and international observers, including media and governance organizations like the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).
• There is an ongoing debate about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process as well as the response of law enforcement agencies during the protests.

What Remains Contested

• The legitimacy of the election results is under scrutiny, with opposition groups and some international observers questioning the integrity of the process.
• There is disagreement over the extent and nature of the security forces' response, with varied accounts of the events leading up to the use of live ammunition.
• Critics and some civil society organizations argue that there was inadequate international oversight during the election.
• Efforts to initiate an independent investigation into the post-election violence remain a point of contention among stakeholders.

Institutional and Governance Dynamics

The recent electoral events in Tanzania highlight systemic challenges within the country's governance structures, particularly in electoral integrity and law enforcement oversight. The electoral process's design, coupled with the regulatory framework governing political activities, underscores a need for reforms to ensure transparency and trustworthiness. Furthermore, the institutional incentives for maintaining political stability may sometimes conflict with civil liberties, prompting questions about the balance between governance and individual rights. Addressing these dynamics requires a nuanced understanding of the incentives that drive official actions and the structural constraints that shape them.

Forward-Looking Analysis

The current situation in Tanzania serves as a critical reflection point for the broader African governance landscape. To move forward, Tanzania must consider implementing structural reforms that enhance electoral transparency and accountability. Strengthening the independence of electoral commissions and establishing robust mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation could be pivotal. Regional organizations and international partners can play an essential role in providing support and expertise to facilitate these reforms. Additionally, fostering an environment where civil society can freely express concerns and engage in dialogue without fear of reprisal is crucial for sustainable democratic governance.