Elections in Tanzania reflect greater political competition

Opposition gains at the local level

Elections were held on October 25, 1015, in the United Republic of Tanzania, with more than 12,000 candidates from Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar—including 1,039 women—running  for the Presidency, Parliament,the Zanzibar House of Representatives, and local District Council.

Tanzania’s ruling party candidate, Dr. John Magufuli, has been declared the winner of the presidential election, winning 58.46% of the vote. Despite the return to power of the ruling party, this is widely seen as the most competitive presidential election since the return to multi-party elections in 1992.

While the opposition Chadema party and its allies didn’t capture state house, it won more seats in parliament than it has done in previous elections. That will give opponents of President-elect John Magufuli’s incoming administration a stronger voice in parliamentary committees, where policy and law formulation starts and where the budget is approved.

In addition, the strong showing by the opposition is likely to translate in greater opposition influence in local councils, which deliver key local services–including education, health and agricultural extension.

Read more:

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-11-03/tanzania-opposition-gamble-on-ex-premier-pays-off-in-parliament

http://www.unwomen.org/en/news/stories/2015/10/women-claim-their-space-in-tanzania-elections