Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, was sworn into office for her first full five-year term on Monday, 3rd November 2025, in a heavily secured ceremony that starkly contrasted with the hopeful atmosphere of her initial ascension to power in 2021. The event, held at a military parade ground in the capital, Dodoma, was closed to the public and marked by a significant security presence following a contentious election that has drawn widespread condemnation.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared President Suluhu the winner of the 29th October general election on Saturday, 1st November, with a landslide victory of over 97% of the vote. However, the election was marred by accusations of widespread irregularities, electoral violence, and the systematic exclusion of major opposition figures. The country experienced a nationwide internet shutdown in the days surrounding the vote, making it difficult to verify information independently.

This inauguration stands in sharp relief to March 2021, when then-Vice President Suluhu took the oath of office following the sudden death of President John Magufuli. Her presidency was initially welcomed with a sense of optimism both within Tanzania and across East Africa, with many hoping for a departure from her predecessor's more authoritarian style and a renewed commitment to democratic reforms and regional cooperation.

A Disputed Mandate

The lead-up to the 2025 election saw a significant crackdown on political dissent. The main opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), was disqualified from participating in the presidential race in April 2025. Its chairman and prominent government critic, Tundu Lissu, was arrested on charges of incitement and treason after calling for electoral reforms. This move effectively removed any significant challenge to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, which has been in power since independence.

Following the declaration of results, protests erupted in several cities, leading to clashes with security forces. The United Nations human rights office noted credible reports of at least 10 deaths. In her victory speech, President Suluhu described the election as "free and democratic" and labelled the protesters as "unpatriotic," vowing to use security agencies to maintain peace.

The decision to hold the inauguration at a military barracks instead of the traditional national stadium, which allows for public attendance, has been interpreted by observers as a measure to prevent potential disruptions and control the narrative surrounding her new term. The event was attended by several regional leaders and dignitaries, including Kenyan Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.

Implications for Kenya and East Africa

The political situation in Tanzania is of critical importance to Kenya and the wider East African Community (EAC). Tanzania is a key trading partner, and political instability could have significant economic and security repercussions for the region. The relationship between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, which has seen improvement under President Suluhu's initial term, could face new tests.

Earlier in 2025, relations were strained when a delegation of Kenyan lawyers and activists, including prominent opposition figure Martha Karua, were detained and deported from Tanzania. They had travelled to observe the trial of Tundu Lissu, highlighting the cross-border interest in Tanzania's democratic health. Reports also suggest that some of the post-election unrest spilled over into Kenya.

As President Suluhu begins her new term, the focus for Kenya and the EAC will be on whether her administration will pursue the path of reconciliation she championed with her "4R's" strategy (Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms, and Rebuilding) or double down on the hardline tactics seen during the election period. Her inaugural address called for national unity and dialogue over violence, but the actions of her government in the coming months will be the true indicator of Tanzania's political trajectory and its role as a stable partner within the East African bloc.

The international community, including regional bodies like the EAC and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has been urged to call for transparency and respect for democratic principles. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Tanzania can resolve its internal political divisions and reaffirm its commitment to the democratic values that underpin the stability of the entire region.