The European Parliament has expressed deep concern over the general elections held in Tanzania, stating that the polls were neither free nor fair. In a joint statement, the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) urged democratic partners to stand firm in defending democracy and human rights.

“As Tanzanians went to the polls today, the international community watched with deep concern,” the statement read. “What should have been a celebration of democracy, instead unfolded in an atmosphere of repression, intimidation, and fear. These elections cannot be regarded as free and fair. The fraud did not begin at the ballot box – it has been unfolding for months.”

The MEPs highlighted the harassment and arrest of opposition leaders, exclusion of their parties, and the systematic dismantling of civic space. They specifically mentioned the case of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing trial for high treason for demanding free and fair elections. “Lissu must be released immediately and unconditionally,” the statement emphasized.

The statement also noted that no election can be credible when the main opposition is silenced, freedom of assembly and expression are denied, and independent media are intimidated and censored. “Reports of irregularities, obstruction of observers, and targeted violence against critical voices have further eroded the integrity of this electoral process,” the MEPs added.

“We urge all democratic partners to stand firm in the defence of democracy and human rights. Silence is not neutrality – it is complicity,” the statement concluded.

The joint statement was signed by David McAllister, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs; Mounir Satouri, Chair of the European Parliament’s Sub-Committee on Human Rights; and Merja Kyllönen, Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for relations with the Pan-African Parliament.