The African Union (AU) has released a critical report condemning Tanzania’s October 29, 2025 presidential election as undemocratic and lacking transparency. The report, published on November 5 by a 72-member observer mission, highlights serious violations of electoral standards and human rights, raising concerns about the country’s democratic trajectory.
According to the AU observers, the election failed to meet both AU principles and international norms for free and fair elections. The report cites widespread irregularities, including ballot fraud, the use of excessive military force, politically motivated abductions, and the strategic shutdown of internet services during the voting period. These actions, the AU stated, significantly undermined voter freedom and public trust in the electoral process.
Observers documented troubling scenes at polling stations, such as voters receiving multiple ballots, the absence of opposition party representatives, and the expulsion of election monitors during vote counting. These findings suggest a deliberate effort to manipulate outcomes and suppress dissent.
Despite these concerns, the Tanzanian government has defended the election’s integrity. President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in for a second term on November 3, after securing 97.66% of the vote. She acknowledged that fatalities occurred during post-election protests but disputed the figures reported by opposition groups, calling them exaggerated.
The AU’s report concludes with a strong recommendation for Tanzania to implement deep electoral and governance reforms. These include strengthening institutional independence, ensuring civil liberties, and promoting inclusive political participation. Without such changes, the AU warns, Tanzania risks further erosion of democratic norms and escalating public unrest.
This report adds to growing international scrutiny of Tanzania’s political climate and may influence future diplomatic and development engagements with the country.
