Retired Prime Minister and former Chief Justice Joseph Warioba has called for open dialogue between the ruling party CCM, opposition party CHADEMA, and the Government to ensure lasting peace and unity as Tanzania prepares for the 2025 General Election.
Speaking on May 3, 2025, during a national symposium on the upcoming elections, Warioba emphasized the need for an inclusive, free, and fair electoral process.
The symposium brought together representatives from political parties, government institutions, legal experts, and the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS), the event's main organizer.
“Elections involve both voters and candidates. Every Tanzanian aged 18 and above has the right to vote, and those aged 22 and above have the right to run for office. That is why our elections must be conducted in a free and just manner,” he said.
Warioba revealed that he had spoken with both CHADEMA and CCM leaders and stressed that while not all demands from the opposition may be feasible, there remains room for compromise and mutual understanding.
“What matters most is for us, as a nation, to come together and address our challenges through dialogue. We still have time to revise and amend electoral regulations to reach consensus—there is no need for confrontation,” he emphasized.
He urged President Samia Suluhu Hassan to take a proactive role in facilitating reconciliation. “The President still has the opportunity to convene talks involving CCM, CHADEMA, and the Government. As a nation, we must unite in pursuit of justice and equality,” he added.
Warioba also called upon religious leaders to help mediate the political environment, warning of the dangers of national unrest if grievances are not addressed.
“Such issues require the involvement of religious leaders, who can guide political parties toward peace. We must not allow the country to reach a point where citizens feel unsafe or victimized without cause,” he warned.
“Political competition should never come at the expense of national unity. We must not harm our citizens through reckless rivalry,” he stated.
He further underscored the independence of the judiciary, stating, “The courts must remain a place of justice for all. No one is above the law.”
Contributing to the discussion, senior advocate Jeromy Mtobesya emphasized the constitutional duty to uphold the law. Citing Article 26, he said, “Every citizen has the obligation to obey and respect the laws of the United Republic of Tanzania. Law enforcers must implement the laws fairly and justly.”
Mtobesya also stressed the values of political tolerance enshrined in Article 20, which guarantees the right to express opinions while respecting legal boundaries. He pointed out that a multiparty system demands patience, fairness, and a spirit of coexistence.
Referencing a 2015 policy paper, he reminded participants that the role of the police during elections is to protect human rights, act impartially, and build trust with citizens—applying only necessary force when needed.
“When courts handle political cases, they must consider human rights and deliver justice without prejudice. Rule of law must guide institutions regardless of political affiliation,” he added.
Professor Elisha Ongoya Zebedee from Kenya also addressed the forum, offering insight into Kenya’s electoral evolution. He urged East African nations to work together for collective progress.
“As Africans, we must find ways to support one another and reach joint decisions for the good of our nations. I commend the TLS for organizing this important symposium,” Prof. Ongoya said.
He concluded by stressing the importance of freedom, fairness, and an independent electoral commission.
“We need an environment that respects the fundamental rights of citizens. It’s essential that lawyers stand firm and courageous in defending the rights of their clients and communities,” he said.