Tanzania’s High Court is set to hear a landmark case on Monday, September 29, 2025, that could have major implications for the presidential race.
Mr. Luhaga Joelson Mpina and ACT Wazalendo are challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to remove him from the contest, citing violations of constitutional rights, national laws, and electoral procedures.
The case, filed under number 24027 of 2025, will be heard by a three-judge panel: Justice Frederick Manyanda, Justice Sylvester Kainda, and Justice Abdallah Gonzi.
In an earlier ruling, the court denied the government’s request for extra time to respond to the claims, allowing only four days for a reply. The hearing will take place in person at the High Court’s Main Registry in Dodoma.
This legal battle has attracted national attention as it touches on the integrity of Tanzania’s electoral process and citizens’ right to fair representation. ACT Wazalendo and Mr. Mpina argue that reinstating his candidacy is a matter of democratic principle, not just party politics.
In a related case (number 23617 of 2025) against the Registrar of Political Parties and the Attorney General, ACT Wazalendo challenged the annulment of the party’s nomination meeting that confirmed Mr. Mpina as its presidential candidate.
The court is expected to deliver a ruling online on Thursday, September 25, 2025, addressing objections and the main application.
ACT Wazalendo expressed full confidence in its legal team and praised all candidates and party members engaged in the political process.
The party reaffirmed its motto: “We fight by participating, we participate by fighting.”
Political analysts say the upcoming rulings could set key precedents for candidate eligibility, political party autonomy, and the broader democratic framework in Tanzania, reinforcing the role of the judiciary in safeguarding fair elections.