When Samia Suluhu Hassan became Tanzania’s President in 2021, she inspired hope. Known for her calm demeanor and reformist promises, she initially signaled a shift from the heavy-handed leadership of her predecessor, John Magufuli. She pledged to open democratic spaces, respect the opposition, and support freedom of expression. But recently, some of her actions have raised questions about whether she’s following in Magufuli’s footsteps and leaning toward authoritarianism. Here are five reasons why President Samia is increasingly facing criticism for veering away from the democratic ideals she initially promoted.
1. Clampdown on Opposition Leaders
One of the main areas where Samia is drawing criticism is in her approach to opposition parties. In her early months, she lifted bans on opposition rallies, signaling tolerance and an open political space. But the initial goodwill has been overshadowed by recent crackdowns on prominent opposition leaders, including Freeman Mbowe, the chair of Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema. Mbowe was arrested in 2021 on charges many felt were politically motivated, raising concerns about Samia’s willingness to suppress political opponents rather than engage in healthy democratic competition
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2. Stifling Freedom of the Press
Samia initially took steps to open up the media landscape, allowing some banned publications to resume operations. However, recent actions tell a different story. Some journalists have reported harassment, and media outlets have faced threats of closure if they do not toe the government line. Media watchdogs have raised alarm about increased surveillance and restrictions on reporting, particularly around sensitive political topics. This shift has raised alarms that Samia’s administration may be returning to the restrictive media policies that Tanzania saw under Magufuli.
3. Restricting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
Civil society organizations, once hopeful for a more cooperative relationship with the government, are now facing tighter regulations and surveillance. Recently, Samia’s administration has introduced policies that restrict CSOs’ operations, especially those critical of the government or those advocating for human rights and democracy. This crackdown on civic space echoes authoritarian tendencies, as it limits citizens’ abilities to organize, advocate, and hold the government accountable.
4. Prolonged Detention and Harassment of Critics
The recent increase in arrests and detentions of critics, often without clear legal grounds, has raised red flags. Activists, bloggers, and opposition voices have reported intimidation tactics that discourage dissent. Some critics argue that these detentions are a tool used by Samia’s administration to silence voices that challenge her authority, thus consolidating her power. This tactic has led many to draw parallels between her government and other authoritarian regimes where such practices are common.
5. Erosion of Democratic Institutions
Critics argue that Samia’s administration has made moves to weaken democratic institutions, particularly by undermining the independence of the judiciary and the electoral commission. There are concerns that judicial appointments and rulings increasingly favor the ruling party, and there are reports of electoral officials being influenced by the government. Such moves suggest that Samia’s government is prioritizing party loyalty over institutional integrity, an approach that could erode public trust and democracy in the long run.
What This Means for Tanzania’s Future
The trajectory of Samia Suluhu’s leadership raises pressing questions about Tanzania’s democratic future. While her initial steps gave citizens and the international community hope for a more open and democratic Tanzania, recent actions paint a different picture. If these trends continue, Tanzania risks reversing the democratic gains it has made over the years. President Samia has the chance to reaffirm her commitment to democratic principles, but it requires a willingness to tolerate dissent, respect democratic institutions, and embrace genuine political competition.
In the end, only time will tell if Samia Suluhu Hassan will be remembered as a reformer who strengthened Tanzanian democracy—or as a leader who failed to uphold the freedoms she once seemed to champion.
