This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
As we approach the end of November, a crucial civic election is on the horizon, but it's a process that's largely flying under the radar.
On November 30, 2019, Tanzanians will head to the polls to elect representatives who will shape the country's governance at the local level, including aldermen and councillors for villages, towns, cities, and district authorities.
The importance of this election lies not only in its ability to renew the country's governance structures but also in providing a glimpse into the strengths of various political parties as they prepare for the general election in 2020.
However, the election's significance may be compromised by the current state of affairs in Tanzania, where the ruling party has been given a free rein to engage in politics while opposition parties face restrictions.
President John Pombe Magufuli has effectively declared a ban on all political activities except those conducted by representatives in their respective constituencies.
This means that a member of parliament can only engage in activities within their constituency, while a councillor can only do so in their ward.
But what about national leaders of political parties who don't hold a constituency seat? They would be barred from engaging in any political activity anywhere.
This is not in line with the constitution or the law, but rather a diktat from the president.
Opposition politicians have been cautious, avoiding confrontation with a police force that has shown a willingness to crack down on dissent.
Meanwhile, the ruling party is enjoying a free pass, with its cadres crisscrossing the country without hindrance, spreading a message that only Magufuli can transform the country and only the CCM party can run it effectively.
They highlight big projects supposedly implemented by Magufuli, even when these are inherited from his predecessors.
While Magufuli's achievements are undeniable, it's essential to allow other voices to be heard, rather than forcing them down the throats of those who disagree.
What happens in these civic elections will give us an idea of what next year's general election will look like, not only in terms of political performance but also in terms of fairness in the conduct of the elections.
If the ruling party is allowed to run amok while opposition parties are severely restricted, the victory will be hollow.
Having elections that mean nothing at all is worse than having no elections at all, as it creates dissentions, hate, and animosity.
Only those who don't love this country would benefit from such a scenario.
As we watch the civic elections unfold this November and the general election next year, we'll see if the ruling party will play fair and square.
— Chairman of the board of the Raia Mwema newspaper and an advocate of the High Court in Dar es Salaam, Jenerali Ulimwengu, can be reached at mailto:
