By Business Insider Reporter
The High Court of Tanzania has issued a 14-day injunction barring opposition party Chadema from conducting any political activities, including meetings and mobilisation campaigns.
The decision, delivered today by Judge Hamidu Mwanga at the Dar es Salaam sub-registry, follows a civil suit filed by three former party officials citing violations of party laws and the national constitution.
The plaintiffs – Said Issa Mohamed, former Chadema Vice Chairperson for Zanzibar, alongside Ahmed Rashid Khamis and Maulida Anna Komu – allege that Chadema’s leadership has failed to equitably manage the party’s financial and material resources between Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.
They also accuse the party of fostering religious and gender-based discrimination, and issuing divisive statements that threaten the union between the two regions of the United Republic of Tanzania.
The injunction was granted pending the hearing of the main case scheduled for June 24, 2025.
The plaintiffs, represented by a legal team, requested the interim measure to halt Chadema’s “No Reforms, No Election” campaign and other political engagements that they claim could influence public opinion and disrupt party governance ahead of the court’s determination.
Notably, Chadema was not legally represented at the ruling after its attorney, Jebra Kambole, withdrew from the case. Kambole cited procedural irregularities and claimed the court had disregarded arguments from the defense.
The absence of legal representation meant the ruling was made without Chadema formally contesting the request for interim measures.
This development poses a significant challenge for Chadema as it seeks to rally public support for democratic reforms ahead of the 2025 general election.
The party has consistently argued for changes to electoral laws and structures, positioning its campaign as a prerequisite for free and fair elections.
However, the legal setback could limit its momentum during a critical mobilisation period.
The court’s decision also underscores growing legal scrutiny on opposition activities, raising questions about internal party governance and broader political freedoms. While the full case awaits trial, the injunction effectively puts a pause on Chadema’s campaign trail, forcing the party into a legal battle that may shape its political prospects in the months ahead.
