Tanzania Election Faces Human Rights Concerns Amidst Opposition Detentions

Nairobi, Oct 29 (AP) - Polling stations in Tanzania opened Wednesday for an election clouded by human rights concerns and the detention of opposition figures.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, from the long-ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party that has governed since Tanzania's independence in 1961, is seeking a full term. Queues were observed at several polling locations visited by Associated Press journalists. Voting commenced at 7:00 am local time and will conclude at 4:00 pm, followed by vote counting. Preliminary results are anticipated within 24 hours, although the electoral commission has a week to confirm the final results.

Opposition leader Tundu Lissu, from the main opposition party CHADEMA, remains imprisoned, facing treason charges for advocating electoral reforms. Meanwhile, the second largest opposition party's candidate is not allowed to participate.

Amnesty International has highlighted a climate of fear surrounding the election, reporting verified instances of enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings. The organization criticizes the alleged security force abuses, stating that they erode the election's credibility.

President Hassan aims for her first complete term after completing the tenure of John Pombe Magufuli, who passed away unexpectedly in 2021. There are also sixteen candidates from smaller opposition parties on the ballot. While over 37 million voters are registered, representing a 26% increase from 2020, analysts suggest that voter turnout might be low due to a perception that Hassan's victory is inevitable.

CHADEMA has urged citizens to protest on election day. (AP)

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