Freeman Mbowe, chairman of the opposition party Chadema, has announced plans to file a case in the High Court of Tanzania, pushing for independent and credible electoral systems in the country.
Speaking on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Mbowe outlined ten resolutions passed by the party’s Central Committee after reviewing the recently concluded local government elections held on November 27, 2024.
“The Central Committee has resolved to file a case in the High Court of Tanzania to demand independent electoral systems and credible rights in local and general elections,” Mbowe declared.
The local government elections saw participation from 19 political parties, with the ruling CCM securing a dominant victory, claiming 99.01% of the vote.
Chadema followed with 0.79%, while ACT-Wazalendo, CUF, and NCCR-Mageuzi garnered 0.09%, 0.08%, and 0.01%, respectively.
Mbowe described the outcome as indicative of deeper systemic issues in the country’s electoral framework. He stressed that the push for reforms is a long-term endeavour, particularly under oppressive systems.
Chadema’s decision to challenge the system in court reflects growing calls for greater transparency and fairness in Tanzania’s political landscape. The party hopes the legal process will help secure fundamental changes that ensure free and fair elections in the future.