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Opposition party ACT Wazalendo has called for a national dialogue and reconciliation process following what it describes as a highly disputed General Election held on October 29, 2025.
In a statement issued after a meeting of its National Executive Committee, the party said the election had exposed deep divisions and mistrust within the country’s political system, warning that the situation could threaten national unity if not addressed through honest dialogue and democratic reforms.
According to the statement, the party believes the government must take immediate steps to restore public confidence in the democratic process.
It urged President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration to engage opposition parties, civil society, and faith-based groups in open talks aimed at healing the country and rebuilding trust.
“The election has left many Tanzanians feeling betrayed and voiceless. What the nation needs now is not confrontation but a collective effort to rebuild our democracy,” the statement read.
ACT Wazalendo expressed deep concern over reports of irregularities, human rights abuses, and political interference during the election.
The party said several of its candidates were unfairly disqualified, agents denied access to polling centres, and members arrested or intimidated.
It also condemned acts of violence that occurred in some constituencies, describing them as a setback for peace and democratic progress.
The party also questioned the credibility of the 86.7 percent voter turnout announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying the figure did not reflect the situation on the ground.
It described the electoral body as “compromised and lacking independence,” and urged the government to consider comprehensive electoral reforms that would guarantee transparency in future polls.
ACT Wazalendo also criticized the reported 98 percent victory margin for President Samia, calling it “politically unrealistic” and harmful to the nation’s democratic image.
It said such results risk eroding citizens’ confidence in elections as a fair and meaningful process.
Beyond the election, the party expressed sympathy for citizens who were affected by what it called post-election violence and intimidation.
It reported that some of its members remained in custody, while others faced serious charges following the polls.
The statement also mentioned the death of one of its council candidates, Dafroza Jacob, who allegedly died while in police custody in Tarime, calling for a transparent investigation into the incident.
ACT Wazalendo said it does not support violence or revenge but insists that justice and accountability are essential for reconciliation.
The party reiterated its call for the release of political detainees and the establishment of an independent commission to investigate the conduct of the 2025 election.
It also proposed the creation of a National Cohesion Commission to bring together political leaders and citizens in dialogue, aiming to end political intolerance and promote inclusive governance.
The party said this would help Tanzania move beyond the tensions created by the election and build a stronger democratic foundation.
“Tanzania’s stability depends on trust between the people and their leaders,” the statement said. “We must stop viewing elections as a zero-sum battle and start treating them as an opportunity for renewal and cooperation.”
ACT Wazalendo further called for a new constitution that would guarantee the independence of electoral institutions, strengthen the rule of law, and protect freedom of expression.
It said genuine political reform is the only path to a more stable, transparent, and just Tanzania.
The statement concluded with an appeal for peace, urging Tanzanians to remain calm and to work together in defending their democracy.
“Our country will not move forward through fear or force,” the party said. “Tanzania’s strength lies in dialogue, justice, and unity. This is the time to put the nation before politics.”