Incumbent Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia is set to retain his position unopposed after being confirmed as the only eligible candidate for the presidency ahead of the Federation’s General Elections scheduled for August 16, 2025, in Tanga.
Karia's clearance follows a rigorous preliminary screening process conducted by the TFF Election Committee, which saw five other presidential aspirants disqualified for failing to meet eligibility criteria.
Among them, one candidate failed to appear for the interview, while the remaining four were found to be in violation of key electoral regulations.
A total of 25 aspirants had picked nomination forms to contest various leadership positions within the Federation six for the presidency and 19 for executive committee roles.
However, only 11 candidates passed the initial vetting stage. Addressing journalists in Dar es Salaam on July 4, 2025, the Chairperson of the TFF Election Committee, Advocate Kiomoni Kibamba, stated that the vetting process was carried out in full compliance with established rules and guidelines.
He emphasized that any candidate dissatisfied with the results of the screening is free to appeal to the TFF Election Appeals Committee, which is tasked with reviewing complaints and making final determinations.
“This was only the preliminary stage. If any candidate feels that they have been unfairly treated, they have the right to appeal. The Appeals Committee exists to ensure justice is served,” said Advocate Kibamba.
He also urged stakeholders, particularly legal professionals who have voiced opposition to the vetting process, to carefully read and understand the election regulations to avoid misinterpretation and public confusion.
“We are witnessing some misleading claims and misinformation. It’s important for those involved to refer to the rules before making accusations or assumptions,” he added.
Kibamba also disclosed that one objection was submitted by Young Africans SC through their Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Ntime.
However, the complaint was dismissed after Ntime failed to appear in person as required by the regulations.
Instead, he sent a representative, which the committee ruled was contrary to the electoral procedures.
“Mr. Ntime was supposed to present his case personally. The rules do not allow representation in such cases, and as a result, the objection was thrown out,” Kibamba explained.
With Karia remaining the sole candidate cleared to run for president, attention now turns to the race for seats on the TFF Executive Committee.
Ten candidates were approved after meeting the necessary qualifications. These include CPa Hosseah Hopaje Lugano, Cyprian Charles Kuyaya, Evance Gerald Mgeusa, Issa Mrisho Bukuku, James Patrick Mhagama, Khalid Abdallah Mohamed, Lameck Nyambaya, Mohamed Omar Aden, Salum Alli Kulunge, and Vedastus Kaluizira Lufano.
On the other hand, six candidates failed to meet the requirements and were disqualified. These are Ally Omary Msigwa, Dr. David Cleopa Msuya, Dr. Yono Stanley Kevela, Juvenalius Pius Rugimbwa, Maanya Juma Maanya, and Rocky Raymond Mgeju.
The TFF General Elections are expected to mark a significant moment for football governance in the country. However, with Wallace Karia now unopposed for the presidency, his re-election seems inevitable barring any successful appeal or unexpected development in the coming days.