The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a South African political party led by Julius Malema, has issued a scathing statement condemning the recent Tanzanian elections as a sham. According to the EFF, the elections were “virtually uncontested” due to the systematic suppression of opposition forces by the ruling party.
The main opposition party, CHADEMA, was effectively silenced as its leader, Tundu Lissu, was jailed, intimidated, and barred from participating in the elections. The EFF notes that another serious challenger, Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, was disqualified on technicalities, further undermining the legitimacy of the electoral process.
The EFF highlights a pattern of repression in the lead-up to the elections, where opposition rallies were blocked, and party activities were disrupted by police and intelligence operatives allegedly acting under the instruction of the ruling party. The party also accuses President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government of abducting, torturing, and intimidating activists, journalists, and community organizers who dared to question the regime.
The EFF’s statement underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that these actions undermine the fundamental principles of democracy and electoral integrity. By highlighting the plight of Tanzanian citizens and the erosion of their democratic rights, the EFF joins a growing chorus of voices calling for greater transparency and accountability in the country’s electoral processes.
”The EFF decried the internet shutdown, nationwide curfews, and deadly crackdown on protesters, calling on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to intervene and urging Tanzanian authorities to release detained opposition leaders and restore full political freedoms”, Said Malema’s Party
The situation in Tanzania has drawn concern from international observers and human rights organizations, who have documented similar instances of electoral malpractice and human rights abuses. As the country navigates its democratic journey, the EFF’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting democratic institutions and ensuring that the will of the people is respected.
