The mission declared that the election failed to meet democratic standards. In its preliminary report, the mission cited widespread irregularities, including the disqualification of opposition candidates, voter intimidation, campaign restrictions, and a lack of transparency in vote counting.
Reacting to the findings, International Political Expert Dr Charles Sinkala said the AU’s firm stance was long overdue but questioned why observers and regional bodies only raised concerns after the elections.
“Where were the AU, Southern African Development Community, and the United Nations Security Council before the polls? These issues were evident long before voting day,” he said.
Sinkala pointed to constitutional clauses in Tanzania that limit electoral fairness, such as Article 41(7), which bars challenges to presidential results, and Article 39(1), which prohibits independent candidates.
“These provisions are embedded in the constitution and make it difficult to achieve genuine democracy,” he said, urging constitutional reforms to align with Africa’s growing democratic aspirations.
He argued that President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration inherited deep-seated structural flaws from previous governments, noting that reforming the constitution requires parliamentary approval, a process often hindered by political resistance.
“The system of governance has made it difficult for Hassan to act decisively, but unresolved issues will always erupt sooner or later,” he added.
Sinkala also criticised the AU’s reactive approach, describing it as “unprofessional” for waiting until after elections to condemn violations. “The AU should prevent these issues, not just observe and write reports,” he said.
He emphasised that while the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance commits member states to uphold democratic principles, it lacks enforcement mechanisms. “You cannot be just a policy organisation without consequences. Until the AU develops a credible oversight system, flawed elections will persist,” he warned.
Sinkala called for the establishment of stronger continental mechanisms to hold leaders accountable and for African nations to adopt constitutions that guarantee fair competition and protect citizens’ rights.
–ChannelAfrica–
