Tanzania's Election Under Scrutiny as Polls Open Amid Tensions

Tanzania's election begins amid concerns of human rights violations. President Samia Suluhu Hassan seeks a second term, while opposition members face detentions and accusations of treason. International organizations report a climate of fear and intimidation, potentially affecting the election's legitimacy.

Tanzania's polling stations opened amidst tensions on Wednesday, with observers expressing concerns over human rights violations. President Samia Suluhu Hassan is aiming for re-election, representing the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party that has governed since 1961.

On the ground, queues stretched outside polling stations with voting starting at 7:00 am local time. The process is scheduled to conclude at 4:00 pm, with preliminary results anticipated in 24 hours, despite the commission having up to a week to finalize outcomes.

Key opposition figures face significant hurdles. CHADEMA's Tundu Lissu is imprisoned on treason charges, while another major opposition candidate was barred. Amnesty International highlights enforced disappearances and arrests, suggesting that these could tarnish the election's credibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)