“We Are Voting in Fear”: Tanzanians Speak Out as Nation Votes Amid Crackdown and Silence
By Lawrence Mubiru
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — October 29, 2025
Tanzania votes today under the shadow of fear, as citizens cast their ballots in an election marred by allegations of voter suppression, intimidation, and human rights abuses. What should have been a proud democratic moment feels instead like a struggle for freedom itself.
Across Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Dodoma, polling stations opened early Wednesday morning. But the mood was somber. People lined up quietly, some whispering their worries, others glancing nervously at security patrols.
“We are voting in fear,” said Anna M, a resident of Dar es Salaam. “We love our country, but we don’t know if our votes will even be counted.”
Opposition Silenced, Hope Suppressed
Major opposition figures remain imprisoned or silenced. Tundu Lissu, leader of the CHADEMA party and one of the nation’s most vocal critics of government repression, is behind bars. Another prominent opposition candidate was barred from running, leaving voters feeling robbed of a true choice.
“How can we call this an election when our leaders are in prison?” asked Mohamed Ally, a youth voter in Arusha. “It’s like shouting into the wind — no one hears us.”
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, describe the pre-election climate as one of “fear and control.” Reports cite enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and even extrajudicial killings targeting activists and opposition supporters.
A France 24 report and several YouTube videos show citizens being turned away from polling centers, while others speak of missing voter cards and heavy police presence.
The Cry of the Maasai
Far from the urban centers, in the plains of Ngorongoro, the Maasai people face another struggle — forced relocation from their ancestral lands under the guise of conservation.
“They came with promises of safety and new homes,” said Naserian Ole, a displaced Maasai elder. “But they took our land and left us with nothing. Our children cry for the cattle we lost.”
International observers have condemned the government’s relocation campaign, calling it “a violation of indigenous rights.” For many Tanzanians, the Maasai’s suffering mirrors the larger story of a nation where power speaks louder than people.
A Country Still Healing
Earlier this year, Tanzania faced a deadly Marburg virus outbreak, claiming lives and stretching its health system to the limit. Though the disease was contained, it left a nation weary and anxious — a sentiment that now bleeds into today’s vote.
“We survived a deadly virus, but corruption and fear are another kind of disease,” said James K, a health worker in Dodoma. “We want healing, not just from illness, but from oppression.”
A Fragile Democracy
Despite the fear, many Tanzanians have chosen to vote — not out of faith in the system, but as a declaration of resilience.
“Even if they silence our leaders, they cannot silence our hope,” whispered Asha Mwita, standing in line under the morning sun.
As the day unfolds, uncertainty hangs heavy. Whether this election leads to renewal or repression remains to be seen. But one truth is clear: Tanzania’s people are speaking — quietly, courageously, and at great risk.
“We just want to be heard,” said Anna M. “That’s all.”
In a nation where voices tremble but refuse to fade, Tanzania’s 2025 election may be remembered not for the ballots counted — but for the courage of those who dared to vote.