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Strengthening Peace and Democracy: Lessons from the Tanzania’s 2025 Election

Author: Mariam Gichan | Publication Date: 2025-12-31 08:45:02

Abstract
The 2025 general election in Tanzania marked a historic milestone with the election of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the nation’s first woman president, who won with 97.66 percent of the vote. This pivotal event, however, was accompanied by unprecedented violence in regions such as Mwanza, Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, and Songwe, challenging the country’s longstanding tradition of peaceful political transitions. The unrest raised urgent questions about the resilience and character of Tanzania’s democracy, which has always prioritized unity, peace, and stability, drawing from the foundational vision of Julius Nyerere. The turmoil revealed the vulnerability of peace in the digital age, as misinformation and social media-fueled outrage contributed to the escalation of conflict. Key lessons from the election include the necessity of safeguarding peace both online and offline, fostering civic awareness, and maintaining dialogue and justice as primary tools for conflict resolution. President Hassan’s post-election call for humility, unity, and responsible citizenship underscores the need to strengthen institutions, communication, and public trust. As Tanzania confronts the realities exposed by the 2025 election, the nation is reminded that democracy is an ongoing process— one that requires collective responsibility, adaptability, and a renewed commitment to its founding values.
Keywords
Tanzania, democracy, election, peace, unity
Author Biography
Mariam Gichan Athman is a freelance journalist and communications practitioner based in Mwanza, dedicated to impactful storytelling and the advancement of equality for all. With a strong academic foundation in archaeology and communication, Mariam’s work explores complex topics such as colonial legacies, archaeology, and human rights, underscoring her commitment to justice and social change. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Archaeology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication, both from the University of Dar es Salaam.
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