Tanzania's electoral process faces unprecedented scrutiny, particularly after the arrest of Tundu Lissu, the outspoken leader of the main opposition party CHADEMA (Party for Democracy and Development). His detention on treason charges has ignited a powerful, youth-led national debate centered around the party's provocative slogan: "No Reform, No Election."

Debate amid charged political climate

This heated atmosphere saw DW's Kiswahili-language program "Maoni Mtaani" hold an open debate at St. Augustine University in Mwanza on the shores of Lake Victoria. The event unfolded in collaboration with local partners Radio Free Africa (RFA) and Star TV.

The theme for this debate — "Click. Like. Vote: Can social media influence your choice during elections?"— was especially topical considering the current political climate, even though the timing was coincidental.

"There is a misconception that politics is a dirty game," said Edwin Odemba, one of the four panelists and host of the Star TV program "Medani za Siasa" ("The World of Politics"). He urged young Tanzanians to reject this notion and instead "participate in the political process through their vote, so that they can be involved in shaping reforms that prioritize their interests."

A tilted playing field

Tanzania's October general election is shaping up to be a one-horse race. The ruling CCM party — in power since Tanzania gained independence over 60 years ago — is expected to face no serious challengers.

The Tanzania Electoral Commission disqualified Tundu Lissu's CHADEMA party from the 2025 presidential and parliamentary elections, citing the party's failure to sign a mandatory electoral code of conduct agreement by the required deadline.

This episode of the "Maoni Mtaani" discussion also gauged the progress young people have made since previous elections — demonstrating greater discernment by voting based on issues rather than the persuasive tactics of politicians.

"It's not the same as it was during the last elections," remarked a user on DW Kiswahili's Facebook channel, saying social media now serves both as a key source of information and a space where he can freely share his opinions.

Social media and the youth vote

"The rise of social media platforms has shifted control of the narrative away from politicians, opening the door for young people to shape and share their own stories online," said panelist Charles Maganga from Jamii Africa, a Dar es Salaam-based digital platform that promotes transparency, digital rights, and civic engagement across Africa.

In Tanzania, young people have been criticized for not participating fully in the electoral process — from failing to hold elected officials to their campaign promises, not registering as voters, to not running for office themselves.

Meena Ally, one of Tanzania's most prominent influencers, said that when youth fail to contribute to the electoral process, they have no one to blame but themselves.

"Instead of complaining that policies crafted by the older generation overlook the interests of young people, take action—register to vote, and run for office yourselves," she said.

Frustration and free expression

Despite repeated calls for them to play an active role in the upcoming elections, young people continue to express frustration — which became clear through their questions during the debate and their comments on social media.

"What's the point of casting a ballot when you know your vote will be stolen?" asked one disheartened Instagram user.

The issue of freedom of speech in Tanzania also surfaced subtly during the debate: whether young people could truly express themselves freely on social media without fear of reprisal. 

It proved difficult for the panelists to address. Yet for Edwin Odemba, the answer was clear. Regardless of the prevailing climate around free expression, he insisted: "It is a patriotic duty for the youth to strive to ensure their voices are heard."

The event at St. Augustine University saw the venue filled to capacity, with extra screens erected outdoors for a watch party. The debate was livestreamed through DW's Kiswahili Facebook channel, on panelist Meena Ally's Instagram account, Star TV Facebook page, and aired live on Star TV. About 311,000 tuned in or followed the debate on social media.