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Conditions set for Samia Suluhu as Commonwealth flags Tanzania democracy concerns
06th December, 2025 01:15 AM
The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) has outlined clear conditions for Tanzania, warning that the government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan must address serious concerns regarding human rights, civil liberties, and post-election violence.
In a statement released on Friday, December 5, 2025, CMAG expressed concern about reported violations of fundamental Commonwealth values, including the freedoms of expression and assembly, the independence of the judiciary, and the principles of good governance.
Also watch: EU calls for release of bodies and political detainees in Tanzania
The group highlighted the importance of democratic institutions for peace, security, and sustainable development.
“The Group reaffirmed its commitment to the fundamental values and principles of the Commonwealth as enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter. Protecting these values is essential for the well-being of citizens and the stability of the country,” the statement read in part.
Ministers expressed alarm over the reported deterioration of civil liberties and democratic space both before and after the October 29, 2025, general elections.
During its seventy-first meeting, held virtually and chaired by Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ian Borg, CMAG reviewed a report from Tanzania’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo.
CMAG welcomed the appointment of former Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera as a Special Envoy to Tanzania. The group placed Tanzania on its Formal Agenda for the next meeting in March 2026, making it clear that the country must meet several conditions to avoid further action.
The Commonwealth stated that the Special Envoy must be granted full and unrestricted access to all relevant stakeholders. Restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, civil society, and media must be lifted.
Also watch: AU election observers say Tanzania polls marred by glaring irregularities
Tanzania must also hold an inter-party consultative forum to agree on a framework for the next election. Transparent processes must be established to hold those responsible for violence accountable and provide compensation to victims.
CMAG also requested that the Tanzanian government submit the terms of reference for its Commission of Inquiry.
The Secretary-General will report on progress at the next meeting. The group encouraged Tanzania to make full use of technical support from the Commonwealth to strengthen the rule of law, constitutionalism, and good governance.
The conditions come amid mounting international concern over unrest in Tanzania. Following the October elections, reports emerged of mass arrests, restrictions on media, internet blackouts, and violent suppression of protests.
Human rights organisations have documented cases of killings and unlawful detentions. Authorities have warned that planned protests on December 9, 2025, would be banned, raising fears of further clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
