Tanzania’s main opposition Chadema calls for annulment of Suluhu’s election win
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema), has declared the October 29, 2025 General Election “null and void,” calling for all results to be cancelled and replaced with a fresh poll supervised by an independent electoral body under strict local and international oversight.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, however, recently defended the October 29 polls, saying they were legitimate and that Chadema was not barred from participating but chose not to for fear of losing.
“The process was free, fair and conducted within the bounds of the law,” she said, dismissing claims that her administration lacked legitimacy.
The President noted that the decision by some political actors to withdraw was self-initiated, not imposed by the State.
“Nobody stopped them. They withdrew on their own. They knew they were heading into a contest they would not win,” she said.
In April, Chadema was disqualified from participating after failing to sign the 2025 Election Code of Ethics as part of its No Reform, No Election agenda. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had warned that parties refusing to sign the code would automatically be disqualified from the October 29 polls to elect a president, MPs, and councillors.
President Hassan described CCM’s landslide victory as a reflection of the government’s record over the past four years.
“CCM achieved a big victory because of the work we have done socially and economically. Tanzanians saw the progress and made their choice,” she said.
Addressing criticism of the post-election security crackdown, the President added: “These were not demonstrations. These were organised acts of violence aimed at causing chaos and toppling the government. No responsible nation would stand by and watch. We took an oath to protect this country and its people. The government you elected is lawful, and we will continue to fulfil our duties.”
Chadema formally announced its stance in Dar es Salaam through its Vice Chairman (Mainland), John Heche, on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
Reading the statement adopted by the party’s Central Committee, Mr Heche said: “The election was conducted in an environment that made a legitimate outcome impossible. The entire process lacks legal, political and moral credibility.”
The statement claims NEC has no independence in its appointment, structure, or operations, making it impossible for citizens to trust the electoral process.
“The commission failed to uphold the rights of citizens to participate freely and fairly,” it said, describing the election as “fundamentally compromised.”
Chadema insists the results cannot be recognised. “President Samia Suluhu Hassan did not gain lawful authority from this process. She is an illegitimate leader who did not obtain the consent of the people, and governance emerging from the October 29 poll rests on repression and the abuse of state institutions,” Mr Heche said.
The party cited widespread violations, including detention of leaders, disruption of campaigns, restrictions on gatherings, interference with communication, and the use of violence and intimidation before, during, and after the election.
“Chadema members and supporters were subjected to arrests, assaults, disappearances and threats aimed at discouraging participation. Communication channels were blocked and the heavy presence of security forces distorted the environment necessary for free political engagement,” Mr Heche said.
Chadema insists a full, impartial investigation is needed. “It is necessary to form a commission of local and international experts to examine killings, disappearances, torture, unlawful detentions, and other acts committed against citizens,” the statement read. Several people remain unaccounted for, and families have not received answers regarding missing relatives. “Tanzanians deserve truth, justice and accountability. Those who planned, financed or executed these violations must be held fully responsible,” Mr Heche said.
The party is also demanding compensation for families who lost relatives, those who suffered permanent injuries, and citizens whose property was destroyed. “These were not ordinary losses but consequences of the state’s unlawful actions,” the statement added.
Chadema is calling for sweeping reforms across governance and legal structures. “The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties, the courts, security organs, and local government systems must be reformed. Current arrangements have failed to guarantee justice, equality, and political freedoms,” it said.
The party also demands a new constitution. “The shortcomings in the 1977 Constitution have contributed to repeated electoral crises and concentrated power in ways that undermine democratic accountability. Tanzania needs a free, fair and trustworthy electoral system,” the statement read.
To restore confidence in governance, Chadema is calling for a Transitional Government. “It will oversee comprehensive reforms and organise a fresh, credible election. It must not be led by President Hassan and must be a neutral, widely accepted leadership structure supported by local and international institutions,” it added.
Chadema also announced it will not cooperate with the current administration. “Avoid meetings or engagements that may be used to legitimise a government we do not recognise,” Mr Heche directed party leaders and supporters.
The party says it stands with young people, activists, religious leaders and all citizens calling for political change, constitutional reforms, and a credible democratic future.
“We remain committed to pursuing justice and ensuring that what happened never happens again. The struggle for democracy will continue until every citizen’s rights are respected,” the statement reads in part.
Shows
See AllAM Live
AM Live is NTV's morning current affairs show that sets the agenda for the day with insightful panels every weekday.
Business Redefined
Business Redefined is Kenya’s premier thought leadership platform for unpacking matters regarding economic and finance policy as well demystifying complex developments in the region’s capital markets.
Comedies
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Creatives & Coins Podcast
A podcast that dives deep into the vibrant and rapidly evolving digital creative economy in Kenya. This show explores the lives, challenges, and triumphs of individuals who are successfully navigating the gig and creative economies. From digital artists and content creators to freelance writers and tech entrepreneurs, we spotlight the voices that are shaping the future of work in Kenya.
Documentaries
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Entertainment
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Fixing The Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar. Podcast created by: Nation FM
Fixing the Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar
Full Episodes
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Gumzo La Sato
Gumzo La Sato is a live social issues show that aims to create awareness about issues affecting the larger society. The discussions range from Parenting, Marital bliss and struggles, Oppression, violence, and all matters of the Heart.
Health Diary
Health Diary is a weekly show that highlights different types of diseases/conditions and seeks ways to prevent, treat/manage them. The show debunks this through real life stories and also feature specialists in different fields, to offer medical advice on the same.
Letter To My Younger Self
Letter To My Younger Self is a podcast where guests get to write a letter to their younger self, from which Maxine formulates questions to ask them during the hour-long show.
Nation Reports
Nation Reports is a weekly podcast offers an opportunity for listeners to interact with various reporters and journey with them as they unravel the biggest most emotive stories.
One Health Lens Podcast
Discussing health matters and human stories from Kenya and across Africa. We talk big picture from people to policy, ecosystems, and everything in between. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehealthlens
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost peeks through the story of Louis Otieno, the times, and everything in between.
Primetime
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Speaking of GEN Z
Speaking of Gen Z brings you entertaining but meaningful conversations about a generation that is trying to navigate through adulthood. Join hosts Michelle, Jackie and Esther as they unravel all things Gen Z.
Sport On
Sport-On is a 30-minute sports magazine show on NTV and 3 hours on NATION FM. The show seeks to give the sports “fanatics” and “funatics” comprehensive and in-depth coverage of sports both locally and internationally.
Tech-over
The extent of technological growth is beyond mere acknowledgment; it has seamlessly integrated into our daily existence. A few years ago, the notion of paying electricity bills through mobile money or recharging with 'tokens' in Kenya seemed inconceivable. Online product sales were considered distant, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping various facets of our lives. Amidst these technological leaps, those with a solid understanding of tech can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a sustainable livelihood. Tech over Show aims to be the platform facilitating discussions among thought leaders, innovators, tech companies, and the government, addressing challenges and opportunities in Kenya's thriving tech industry.
Thamani
Thamani is a business show which is dedicated to emerging issues regarding micro, small and medium size businesses.
The Politalk podcast
This is The Politalk podcast. Here we look into the ins and outs of everything Kenyan politics. We pull no punches and have no reason to sugarcoat anything that matters to Kenyans.
The Trend
A two-hour-long live show that airs on Fridays. The show focuses on what is current in the entertainment industry, controversial and popular across all media platforms targeting those aged between 25 and 35 years.
The trend podcast
The trend podcast highlights and captures the best of banter from #TTTT segment that airs every Friday on NTV. It's the TTTT EXTRA
The Wicked Edition
The Wicked Edition with Dr. King’ori seeks to address serious issues through humour and relatable wit. It is a two-part half hour show filmed in front of a live audience
Trending
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Twende
Twende is a travel show that highlights beautiful, unique, diverse locations, people, and cultures. The show offers fresh perspectives on familiar locations and memorable experiences in new ones.
Unscripted
This Saturday evening lifestyle show lets viewers share their stories and life experiences as openly & honestly for the purpose of shifting the culture of silence.
VIP Access
VIP ACCESS is Anyiko Owoko’s YouTube and podcast show on Music and Culture dedicated to promoting Africa’s most promising talent and creatives. This podcast grants you VIP access into timeless interviews while providing a platform for rising as well as established artists across the continent. Since launching in 2018, Anyiko has interviewed over 70 African music stars.
WADR
This weekly news show aims to have all sides of debate but not be constrained by it, listen to main voices in the contest but not allow them to hold the viewers hostage, entertain debate but allow push back with all due respect.
When death do us part
In this podcast, three widowers openly speak about the process of grief, how they found themselves exposed to the emotional turmoil of losing their wives, and how society still does not know how to deal with them.
Your World
Your World is a health, wellness and variety show. It provides a platform for audiences and experts to share their experiences on how to improve or manage health issues, across Kenya and the Africa region.