Tanzanian Opposition Party Accuses Authorities of Rigging Local Elections
Violence and Irregularities Mar Voting Process
DAR ES SALAAM: Tanzanian opposition party Chadema has accused the authorities of rigging the local elections, citing multiple incidents of violence and irregularities. The party claims that three of its members were killed in incidents linked to the elections, including one candidate who was beaten to death by police.
Murders and Violence
According to Chadema, Modestus Timbisimilwa, a party candidate, was beaten to death by police in Dar es Salaam as he attempted to stop "fake ballots being inserted into ballot boxes." Another candidate, George Juma Mohamed, was shot dead by police at his home in Mkese in central Tanzania the night before. Additionally, a Chadema official, Steven Chalamila, was killed in a machete attack at his home in Tunduma near the border with Zambia.
Ruling Party’s Reputation
The ruling CCM party has been accused of increased repression of the opposition in the run-up to the vote. "We condemn the murders that have occurred and demand that the police take immediate action to arrest and bring all perpetrators to justice," Chadema said in a statement.
Election Process
Today’s ballots are a key test for the parties and the country’s democratic institutions ahead of a presidential election next October. Tanzania is electing more than 80,000 local leaders, who wield considerable power in the East African nation. Chadema claims that many of its candidates were unfairly disqualified and had already listed claims of multiple irregularities before polls closed today.
Pre-Marked Ballots
The party said its agents had found pre-marked ballots for ruling CCM party candidates in several locations, but were arrested by police when they tried to intervene. An AFP journalist in the western city of Kigoma saw voters clashing over alleged fake ballots, leading to arrests. "We demand that Tamisemi (the local government ministry) provide an explanation to the public regarding the pre-marked ballots for CCM candidates in various parts of the country," Chadema said.
Challenges Ahead
The ruling CCM of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, a dominant force for decades, is facing a strong challenge from Chadema which boycotted the polls in 2019 citing violence and intimidation. "We are electing local leaders who are also important campaigners during the general election," Chadema’s director of communication and foreign affairs John Mrema told AFP yesterday.
Conclusion
The violence and irregularities marred the voting process, casting a shadow over the credibility of the elections. The opposition party’s accusations of rigging and repression have raised concerns about the country’s democratic institutions. As the country looks ahead to the presidential election next year, it is crucial that the authorities take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure a free and fair vote.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the local elections in Tanzania?
A: The local elections are being held to elect more than 80,000 local leaders, who wield considerable power in the East African nation.
Q: Who is the ruling party in Tanzania?
A: The ruling party is the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Q: What is the opposition party’s stance on the elections?
A: Chadema, the main opposition party, has accused the authorities of rigging the elections and has listed claims of multiple irregularities before polls closed today.
Q: What is the significance of the presidential election next year?
A: The presidential election next year is a key test for the country’s democratic institutions, and it is crucial that the authorities ensure a free and fair vote.