SADC deemed Tanzania's Oct. 29 election flawed due to intimidation, censorship, and lack of transparency.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has declared Tanzania’s October 29, 2025, general election flawed, stating it failed to meet democratic standards due to widespread intimidation, restricted freedoms, and lack of transparency. The SADC Electoral Observation Mission, led by former Malawi Speaker Richard Msowoya, found voters could not freely express their will, citing arrests of opposition leaders like Tundu Lissu, disqualifications, internet shutdowns, media censorship, and interference with observers. Despite a reported 98% vote for President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the mission noted low turnout, ballot irregularities, and a heavily skewed political environment. The final report is expected within 30 days, and SADC urged peaceful resolution of disputes and reforms to ensure future elections are credible and inclusive.