ACT Wazalendo has called on Tanzanians to reject political violence, intimidation and restrictions on civic freedoms as the country prepares for the 2030 General Election.
The opposition party said political differences should be handled through dialogue and democratic processes rather than violence, warning that rising political tensions could undermine citizens’ rights and confidence in the electoral process.
In a statement issued yesterday to mark the International Day of Democracy, party leader Dorothy Manka J. Semu said Tanzania needed to protect the rights of citizens to participate in political activities without fear.
“Let us not fight again, but rebuild our country by turning differences into opportunities for unity, listening to citizens and respecting differing opinions,” Ms Semu said.
ACT Wazalendo said the country was still facing challenges related to political freedoms, including restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, arrests and prosecution of critics and what it described as threats and violence against citizens without adequate accountability.
The party said the situation required political leaders and government institutions to ensure that citizens could exercise their constitutional rights regardless of their political affiliation.
It also raised concerns over arrests of opposition supporters, claiming that since 2024 more than 2,046 people had been arrested on various criminal allegations, with nearly 1,651 cases reaching the courts.
The party further claimed that 134 people had been arrested and charged with terrorism-related offences.
ACT Wazalendo said political competition should not translate into hostility among citizens, urging leaders to avoid hate speech and statements that could deepen political divisions.
“Let us not allow those seeking power to turn differences into hatred and divide citizens, forcing them to choose sides,” the statement said.
The party said Tanzania needed to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure greater protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms.
Among its demands is the election of a president who would uphold democratic principles, strengthen the rule of law, set clearer limits on executive powers and improve institutions responsible for protecting human rights and accountability.
ACT Wazalendo also called for justice and greater respect for citizens’ constitutional rights as the country moves towards the 2030 election.
The party urged Tanzanians to participate peacefully in the electoral process, saying political competition should be used to strengthen rather than weaken national unity.
It said maintaining peace and democracy during the electoral period would give Tanzania a better chance of achieving a credible political transition by 2029.