The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and regional partners have expressed deep concern over what they describe as a rapid decline in democracy and human rights in Tanzania ahead of the country’s October 29 elections.

In a joint statement issued under the regional coalition Jumuiya Ni Yetu, KHRC warned that the environment in Tanzania does not allow for a free or credible election, citing arrests, intimidation and restrictions targeting opposition leaders, activists and journalists.

“We stand here to state that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Borders will not limit our brotherhood and sisterhood,” the statement read.

The groups accused Tanzanian authorities of creating conditions that silence critics and eliminate competition, saying that opposition candidates have been detained or barred from taking part in the polls. The statement described the upcoming vote as a sham election, adding that President Samia Suluhu Hassan is preparing for a coronation rather than an election.

The coalition highlighted a silent epidemic of abductions and enforced disappearances, referencing the cases of CHADEMA leaders Tundu Lissu and John Heche, as well as former ambassador Humphrey Polepole, who all remain in detention or missing.

The statement also noted that several countries including Belgium, Germany, Sweden and Ireland have withdrawn their election observers, while the UN Development Programme is not participating.

KHRC and its partners further raised concern over restrictions on the press and online platforms, saying international media outlets have been barred from entering Tanzania and some local media licenses revoked.

“Without press freedom, it is impossible to ensure accountability or transparency in the electoral process,” the statement added.

The organizations called on regional and continental bodies, including the East African Community and the African Union, to uphold the principles of good governance and credible elections.