Assistant Director for Human Rights at the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, Beatrice Edward Mpembo, said the commission was set up by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on November 18, 2025, to investigate what happened, examine root causes and advise the government on solutions.

The commission is chaired by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman and includes eight other commissioners. It is mandated to assess issues such as youth grievances, opposition actions, security responses and possible financing behind the violence , and to recommend reforms to strengthen reconciliation and democratic institutions.

Authorities said the process includes public participation through a website and hearings, and that the commission’s report is expected in April 2026 after an extension.

Based on its work, Tanzania has proposed a National Reconciliation Initiative and announced other measures, including pardons for 1,787 youths convicted of minor offences linked to the unrest and the creation of a new Youth Ministry to address unemployment and skills development.

President Samia attended the launch of the Global Africa Investment Summit (GAIS) and the World Governments Summit (WGS), where she said Tanzania was seeking “structured collaboration” with investors rather than one-off projects.

“What investors seek today is not only opportunity but trust in institutions, policy consistency, and governments that honour commitments,” she said in remarks shared by State House.

Tanzania is using the Dubai meetings to highlight priority sectors such as ports, industrial zones and regional trade logistics, as part of efforts to position the country as a stable destination for long-term investment.

On the sidelines of the summits, President Samia also held talks with leaders from Antigua and Barbuda and officials from the United Nations tourism agency to explore new partnerships, according to her office.

The World Governments Summit brings together global leaders, investors and policy experts to discuss governance, economic growth and innovation, with this year’s event focusing on technology, sustainability and future governments.

The diplomatic push comes as Tanzania continues to face scrutiny over its October 2025 election, which was followed by youth-led protests and a heavy security response. Official results showed President Samia winning nearly 98 percent of the vote, a figure widely questioned by opposition groups and international observers.

In recent weeks, Tanzania has stepped up diplomatic outreach, with senior officials visiting Europe and the Vatican in an effort to reassure partners and counter concerns over political stability and human rights .

The European Union is expected to decide soon whether to suspend financial support to Tanzania over reported violations during the election period.

Kombo also delivered a special message from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasising the role of the Catholic Church in helping Tanzania maintain stability during sensitive political periods.

“Your teachings have consistently reminded the world that peace is not merely the absence of violence, but the presence of justice, compassion, and care for one another,” Kombo told the Pope.

He described the Church as a vital moral presence in Tanzanian society , saying its voice is most important when it brings people together and rises above division. “The Church’s voice has long offered comfort in moments of uncertainty and clarity in moments of reflection,” Kombo said.

The minister asked Pope Leo XIV to continue encouraging unity and dialogue in Tanzania, adding that such guidance “carries deep meaning” for citizens and strengthens the Church’s role as a source of peace .

Kombo also requested prayers for Tanzania’s stability, a request the Pope welcomed. The Pontiff noted his personal connection to the country, having previously lived in Morogoro, Ruvuma, Arusha and Dar es Salaam, and assured the minister that he would pray for peace. During those discussions, the Holy See formally asked Tanzania to open an embassy at the Vatican. Tanzania is currently represented through its embassy in Germany.

Chaired by retired Chief Justice Mohammed Chande Othman, the commission has been hearing testimony from victims, witnesses and community members.

One of the most disturbing accounts came from Aurelia Joseph, 75, who told the commission she was shot inside her home in Magomeni Kota and later left unattended for hours at Mwananyamala Hospital after being presumed dead.

“I was left there for hours because they thought I was dead,” she said, adding that she lay among more than 20 bodies and saw other injured patients die. She said security officers later interrogated victims at the hospital, accusing them of inciting unrest and questioning their political choices.

Joseph said patients with gunshot wounds were ordered to leave the hospital, whether or not they had been treated. Unable to get care at another hospital, she resorted to traditional remedies. Bullet fragments remain lodged in her body, leaving her in constant pain and with limited mobility.  

Other witnesses described the loss of loved ones in attacks that occurred near or inside their homes. Veronica Lyimo, 37, said her husband was shot and later confirmed dead at Mwananyamala Hospital. Rahma Said, 49, said her son was shot at home and died the following day after failing to receive treatment.

Juma Matari, 25, a mobile phone trader, said his shop in Manzese Darajani was destroyed during looting, with goods worth more than Sh60 million stolen or burned.

Another witness, George Chipeta, a car mechanic, said he was shot in the leg while riding a motorcycle on election day, an injury that eventually led to amputation. He told the commission that fellow ‘bodaboda’ riders raised money to buy him a three-wheeled vehicle so he could continue working. Victims told the commission they hope the process will lead to accountability and ensure such violence is never repeated.

“I express my sincere sympathy for the uncertainty, service restrictions, and internet shutdown you experienced,” President Hassan said , adding that the government would remain vigilant to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

The president also addressed concerns about violence that occurred during and after Election Day, insisting that security measures were taken to safeguard lives and restore order. While defending the government’s response, she acknowledged that democracy is an ongoing process that inevitably produces grievances.

To promote national healing, President Hassan said her administration had taken steps to expand political inclusion, including the creation of a Ministry of Youth within the President’s Office to increase young people’s participation in governance . She also confirmed the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry and reiterated plans to form a truth and reconciliation commission as part of a broader constitutional reform process.

On the economy , President Hassan told diplomats that Tanzania remains among Africa’s fastest-growing economies, with GDP growth close to six percent and inflation contained at about 3.3 percent. She said the country’s public debt remains sustainable.

Looking ahead, the president outlined Tanzania’s 2026 foreign policy priorities, including a shift from aid dependence toward strategic investment, particularly in healthcare. She invited international partners to engage in medical diplomacy and support Tanzania’s ambition to become a regional hub for specialised healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

This concludes our live coverage of Guinea’s 2025 general election, with the vote widely expected to cement the rule of Mamady Doumbouya. Follow Global South World for continued updates as Guinea moves into the next phase of the process.

19:22 GMT: Polls close in Guinea’s presidential election as vote counting begins

18:45 GMT: Polling stations' closing extended by one hour

18:00 GMT: Voting day ends in England

17:00 GMT: Voting is expected to end at 18:00 GMT. As of now, polling stations remain open, with long queues still forming.

14:59 GMT: There are more than 200 observers on the ground and its experts in its situation room

13:30 GMT: Guinean security forces report they have neutralized an armed group posing a "threat to national security" on the outskirts of Conakry

1:21 GMT: Military coup leader and candidate Mamadi Doumbouya votes in Boulbinet accompanied by his wife

12:16 GMT: High turnout in the polling stations

11:41 GMT: The ambassador of Guinée in Angola, H.E. Dienabou Saifond Diallo, accompanied by Sékou Kaba and Lansana Camara votes in Luanda.

10:27 GMT: Presidential Candidate Faya Millimouno casts his vote

9:45 GMT: Reports of an alleged coup following a shooting in the conakry suburbs spread on social media

9:35 GMT: Monitor the election in real time

8:45 GMT: Voting underway

8:25 GMT: Electoral observers monitor elections underway

7:58 GMT: Voters are beginning to head to the polling stations

7:13 GMT: Polling stations open

7:05 GMT: Guinea has shut its borders

Polling stations across the country are expected to open at 7:00 GMT and close at 18:00 GMT

Guinea’s 2025 presidential election is the first since a military coup in September 2021, when General Mamady Doumbouya ousted then-President Alpha Condé amid political unrest and protests. That coup abruptly halted a decade-long experiment with electoral democracy that began with Guinea’s first broadly accepted free election in 2010.

A new constitution lays the groundwork

A constitutional referendum on September 21, 2025 reshaped Guinea’s political system in advance of the election. Approved by nearly 90 % of voters, the new constitution:

This constitution effectively opened the door for Doumbouya to run, a reversal of earlier transitional pledges that had barred junta leaders from seeking office.

The lead candidate: General Mamady Doumbouya

General Mamady Doumbouya, a former special forces commander who led the 2021 coup, is the clear frontrunner. He initially pledged not to contest elections following the coup, but reversed that pledge after the new constitution removed restrictions on junta members running for office.

Doumbouya’s supporters highlight infrastructure work, mining sector reforms, including the long-delayed Simandou iron ore project, and relative stability compared to some neighbours, as reasons for backing his leadership.

Competition and the opposition field

Although multiple candidates are on the ballot, none represent the country’s main opposition leadership. Many big-name figures are either banned from running due to residency or party suspension or remain in exile.

This fragmented field has reinforced expectations that Doumbouya will secure a commanding victory, even as international and regional observers call for a credible, inclusive process.

What’s at stake

Election framework

Polling stations across the country will open at 7:00AM GMT and close at 6:00PM GMT on Sunday, December 28, 2025 for registered voters to cast their ballots. There are over 24,000 polling stations nationwide for this vote.

The president is elected using an absolute majority system: if no candidate gets more than 50 % of the vote in the first round, a runoff between the top two contenders will be held later.

How the Results Will Be Announced

Provisional results are expected to be published quickly after polling:

Observers and Process

Regional and international observer missions from ECOWAS, the African Union, the United Nations, and other organisations are deployed to monitor voting and reporting

Who is eligible and how many voters?

Approximately 6.7 million registered voters are expected to participate on election day. The president is elected by absolute majority; if no candidate secures over 50 % of the vote, a runoff will be held between the top two contenders.

In September 2021, General Mamady Doumbouya led a military coup that ousted then-President Alpha Condé, ending a decade of increasingly contested democratic governance.

When and how the election was announced

The presidential election in Guinea is scheduled for Sunday, December 28, 2025. The date was officially set by government decree on September 27, 2025, following the adoption of a new constitution that reset the political calendar after the 2021 coup.

Guineans will vote in 24,000-plus polling stations nationwide. Results are expected to begin coming in within 48 to 72 hours after polls close.

The world's largest exporter of bauxite

Guinea’s election is set against the backdrop of one of the richest natural resource endowments in Africa, a factor that deeply influences politics, economics, and investor interest.

Guinea holds some of the largest bauxite reserves in the world — roughly 7.4 billion tonnes, accounting for about two-thirds of global reserves and making Guinea a major supplier of the ore used to make aluminium.

The Guinean military has long been a decisive political actor. Since independence from France in 1958, the country has experienced repeated coups, long periods of authoritarian rule, and fragile civilian governments vulnerable to military intervention. Analysts note that the armed forces have historically positioned themselves as both guardians of national stability and arbiters of political power.

That dynamic resurfaced in September 2021, when elite troops led by then–Special Forces commander Mamady Doumbouya overthrew President Alpha Condé, citing corruption, economic mismanagement and political violence linked to Condé’s third-term bid. The takeover was welcomed by many Guineans weary of unrest, but it once again placed the military at the centre of governance.

A transition led by soldiers

Following the coup, the country was governed by a military-led transitional authority dominated by officers. While civilian technocrats were later brought into government, the key levers of power, security, territorial administration and political oversight, remained under military influence.

Regional bloc ECOWAS pressed the junta to set a clear timetable for elections and a return to civilian rule. Doumbouya initially promised a rapid transition, then an 18-month timeline, missing multiple deadlines before eventually committing to elections in late 2025. Throughout this period, the military retained a dominant role in shaping the transition process.

The Constitution and the uniform

The September 2025 constitutional referendum marked a decisive shift. The new basic law removed restrictions preventing military leaders from contesting elections, extended presidential terms from five to seven years, and strengthened executive authority through the creation of a senate partly appointed by the president.

Legal scholars and rights groups argue that these changes blurred the line between a temporary military transition and permanent political influence. By enabling a serving general to seek the presidency, the constitution effectively normalised the military’s direct entry into electoral politics.

Supporters counter that the referendum provided a legal framework for ending transitional rule and that submitting to elections represents a step away from governing by force.

From barracks to ballot box

No longer presenting himself as a neutral arbiter overseeing a handover, Doumbouya is now a political actor seeking a popular mandate. His campaign has leaned on the state apparatus, with ministers and senior officials touring the country, while public demonstrations by critics have remained banned.

Opposition figures and civil society groups argue that the military has not withdrawn from politics but merely changed its methods, replacing decrees and uniforms with constitutional tools and electoral processes designed to preserve its influence.

Whether Guinea’s military is truly returning to the barracks may not be decided on election day alone. Much will depend on post-election governance : the independence of institutions, the space allowed for opposition, and the military’s willingness to submit to civilian oversight.

If the armed forces retain an outsized role behind the scenes, the election may mark not the end of military involvement in politics, but its transformation into a more institutionalised form.

In September 2021, elite forces led by General Mamady Doumbouya stormed the presidential palace and removed President Alpha Condé, ending a turbulent period marked by protests, a disputed third term, and deadly crackdowns.

Standing before cameras, Doumbouya vowed to restore democracy, fight corruption, and organise credible elections. He also pledged that neither he nor other junta members would seek elected office.

That promise no longer stands.

A constitution that changed the rules

The turning point came with a constitutional referendum held in September this year. Approved by an overwhelming majority in a vote boycotted by much of the opposition, the new constitution introduced sweeping changes. It extended presidential terms from five to seven years, created a new senate with a third of its members appointed by the president, and, crucially, removed barriers preventing military leaders from running for office.

For the ruling authorities, the referendum was a legal reset, a way to close the chapter on military transition and reopen the political system under new rules. For opponents, it was a carefully managed process that rewrote the rules mid‑game and paved the way for Doumbouya to convert de facto power into electoral legitimacy.

From junta leader to candidate

Doumbouya now appears on the ballot not as a transitional figure, but as a civilian candidate. His campaign messaging leans heavily on stability, infrastructure gains, and economic promise, particularly around mining and large-scale projects such as the Simandou iron ore development.

Supporters argue that the election represents progress: a coup leader submitting himself to the will of voters rather than ruling indefinitely by decree. They point to roads built, schools renovated, hospitals opened, and long‑delayed mining exports finally leaving Guinea’s ports.

Opponents counter that the transition has been tightly controlled. Public demonstrations have been banned for much of the past three years. Independent media outlets face restrictions. Social media platforms were temporarily blocked ahead of the vote. Several prominent opposition figures were disqualified on legal and residency grounds, leaving the race without its strongest challengers .

The question of legitimacy

At the heart of the election lies a deeper question: does legality equal legitimacy?

Guinea’s history weighs heavily on the moment. Since independence from France in 1958, the country has experienced repeated coups, authoritarian rule, and aborted democratic experiments. It was only in 2010 that Guineans voted in elections widely considered free and fair. The 2021 coup interrupted that trajectory.

For many voters, the issue is not simply who wins, but whether the process allows for genuine choice. An election conducted under a new constitution, with high turnout but limited competition, raises concerns that democracy may exist more on paper than in practice.

A transition concluded or rebranded?

If Doumbouya wins as expected, Guinea will formally return to civilian rule, but under leadership forged in a military takeover and reinforced by constitutional change. Supporters will hail the outcome as the completion of a transition. Critics will describe it as a rebranding exercise that entrenches power rather than disperses it.

For Guineans, the election represents a choice shaped as much by what came before as by what lies ahead. The journey from coup to constitution may be nearing its institutional conclusion, but the broader test, whether democratic norms, accountability, and political freedoms truly take root, will extend well beyond election day.

General Mamady Doumbouya, the current head of state who led the coup , is virtually certain to win after key opposition leaders were disqualified or forced into exile, leaving him without serious challengers.

Why this election matters

About 6.7 million Guinea-Bissau citizens are eligible to vote, and results are expected within 48 hours of the polls closing. A runoff would be held if no candidate wins an absolute majority.

Who’s running?

1. General Mamady Doumbouya (Front-runner)

Doumbouya, a 41-year-old former special forces commander, seized power in 2021 and has governed through a military-led transitional government. He initially pledged not to run for president but reversed that stance after the new constitution removed restrictions on junta members.

Supporters credit him with infrastructure gains, reforms in the mining sector, and economic initiatives. Critics counter that his administration has cracked down on civil liberties, banned protests, restricted media, and jailed or intimidated opponents.

Other candidates

While nine candidates are on the ballot, most are considered relatively minor figures with limited national support:

However, none of these challengers have a substantial grassroots base or the resources to mount a serious challenge against Doumbouya, and several prominent opposition figures were barred from standing.

Who was excluded

Several leading opposition leaders were prevented from running:

Many rights advocates view these exclusions as part of a broader narrowing of the political space, raising concerns about democratic legitimacy.

Key issues in the election

The main question for observers is not who will win — that appears to be Doumbouya — but whether the election will be considered free, fair, and inclusive. Many civil society groups and international actors have criticised restrictions on protests, media freedom, and opposition mobilisation.

The UN has raised concerns about intimidation and a climate of fear during the campaign, urging Guinea’s authorities to protect civic freedoms and ensure a credible vote.

Guinea is one of the richest countries in the world in mineral resources, especially bauxite, iron ore (including the massive Simandou deposits), gold, and diamonds, yet it remains among the poorest in living standards.

As Guinea goes to the polls on December 28, 2025, Doumbouya’s path to the presidency appears clear. But the broader implications, for democracy, civil liberties, and how Guinea’s resources are governed, will continue to shape both internal politics and regional stability in West Africa in the years ahead.

The report also claims that traditional leaders, religious figures, teachers and other civil servants were transported to state residences in major cities, where they allegedly received cash payments of about 50,000 kwacha each, along with meals, during the campaign period.

Beyond state resources, the commission documented direct inducements to voters. In one constituency, a candidate was observed distributing bags of maize to residents, while other areas saw widespread cash handouts. Several of these cases are now the subject of court disputes.

The watchdog said Ma law i’s laws remain unclear on what constitutes an illegal “handout”, allowing politicians to disguise vote-buying as charity. It has urged lawmakers to tighten the law to prevent abuse.

The commission also expressed alarm over the involvement of children in campaigns. It reported seeing children as young as six wearing party regalia and performing for candidates, raising concerns about child protection and safeguarding.

Gender inequality in politics was another key issue highlighted in the report. Only one woman contested the presidency out of 17 candidates, while women made up just 22 percent of parliamentary candidates.

The Human Rights Commission has called for reforms to strengthen the independence of the state broadcaster, improve access to national identification services, and create a more transparent electoral system.

Luis Redondo, president of the National Congress, said the situation requires an immediate investigation into both the primary elections held in March and the subsequent general election process. He explained that a special commission appointed in March has been instructed to examine and document irregularities linked to the conduct of the vote.

The recount follows controversy surrounding the 9 March primary elections, which were affected by widespread logistical failures in the distribution of voting materials. In several polling stations, delays reportedly exceeded 16 hours, fuelling voter frustration and raising concerns that the disruptions may have influenced participation and the integrity of the process.

Redondo pointed to Honduras’ electoral law , which requires the CNE to formally declare election results within 30 days of voting and to order their publication in the Official Gazette, La Gaceta . He noted that the Constitution grants Congress the authority to step in and oversee the count and declaration of results if the electoral body fails to fulfil its legal obligations.

“We want transparency, and if it reaches this branch of the State, if there is no declaration, the constitutional process will be applied and we will carry out the count and the tally, vote by vote,” Redondo said, referring to the review of results from more than 19,000 polling stations nationwide. Lawmakers supporting the recount argue the move is essential to restoring public trust in the electoral system amid fears of institutional failure and broader political pressure.

“You can hide bodies, but you cannot hide funerals,” Dr Nchemba said, adding that it would be impossible for thousands of people to die in Dar es Salaam within a few days without leaving visible traces.

The Prime Minister also criticised what he described as attempts to sensationalise the unrest, saying some images shared online were taken from conflict zones outside Tanzania and falsely presented as evidence of events inside the country. He warned that spreading unverified information about loss of life was dangerous and could fuel further tension.

According to Dr Nchemba, the government has established a presidential committee to investigate what happened during and after the protests. He said families who are still searching for missing relatives will have their cases reviewed as part of that process.

Despite the government’s rejection of the 10,000-death claim, authorities have not yet released an official death toll. A full account of casualties and damage is expected once the special investigation commission completes its work.

The protests erupted after the October 29 elections and were followed by a heavy security response. While the government maintains that order was restored lawfully, opposition groups and rights activists continue to raise concerns about the use of force and the lack of transparent information on casualties.

Security, migration and the economy as decisive issues

Castillo explained that the campaign was shaped by a narrow set of issues that dominated public debate. “This campaign was dominated by two or three strong issues on the agenda,” she said, highlighting security, particularly organised crime, alongside migration and the economy . While these concerns are shared across society, Castillo stressed that Kast was especially effective in placing them at the centre of the political conversation and framing them as urgent priorities.

Post-pandemic fatigue and a sense of national decline

According to Castillo, the prominence of these issues cannot be separated from the aftermath of the social unrest and the pandemic. Economic pressures, increased migration and the failure of progressive agendas in the constitutional process generated widespread exhaustion. Although she acknowledged that “all economic indicators have tended to stabilise,” she pointed out that the dominant perception during the campaign was that “the country was in a bad direction,” a narrative that Kast successfully capitalised on.

A campaign focused on rejecting the government

Rather than promoting a broad ideological programme, Kast centred his campaign on criticism of the government. “That was the centre of the Kast campaign,” Castillo explained, adding that it “focused mainly on attacking the government.” Issues on which he lacks majority support were consciously avoided. Castillo noted that this was Kast’s third presidential campaign and that his approach reflects a learning process, particularly in sidelining topics such as gender, abortion and same-sex marriage, where Chilean society broadly supports existing rights.

Strategic moderation and a narrow governing agenda

This selective focus allowed Kast to present what Castillo described as an “emergency government”. According to her analysis, the campaign outlined a tight agenda aimed at reducing public spending, strengthening security and addressing migration . By avoiding divisive cultural debates, Kast was able to expand his appeal without directly confronting widely held social positions.

Punishment vote rather than ideological endorsement

Castillo cautioned against interpreting the election outcome as a clear ideological mandate. She underlined the difficulty of separating genuine support for Kast from a broader tendency to vote against the incumbent administration, noting that his decisive second-round result does not reflect his actual level of backing. Kast, she recalled, secured only “23 or 24 percent” in the first round, meaning that the 58% he obtained in the runoff was largely the product of electoral dynamics rather than broad ideological support. When asked whether the result reflected right-wing conviction or voter punishment, she concluded that “it is difficult to say,” pointing to dissatisfaction with the government as a decisive factor.

A victory shaped by context, not consensus

Overall, Castillo’s analysis points to a victory driven more by circumstance than by consensus. Kast’s success was shaped by effective agenda-setting, strategic restraint and widespread discontent, rather than enthusiastic alignment with his ideas. The election result, she concluded, reflects a political moment defined by rejection and fatigue, rather than a unified ideological shift within Chilean society.

As unrest intensified, CNE councillor Cossette López warned that the situation at the Electoral Logistics Centre had become “critical”. The protest formed part of a broader wave of demonstrations in the capital, with tyres also set alight earlier on Monday along a key road linking Tegucigalpa to northern Honduras. Similar scenes were reported last week outside CNE headquarters.

The protests come amid repeated delays in the vote count, which has been halted several times and accompanied by accusations of irregularities. With 99.80 per cent of polling stations counted, National Party candidate Nasry Asfura, backed by Donald Trump , is leading with 40.54 per cent of the vote, followed by Liberal Party candidate Salvador Nasralla on 39.19 per cent, and Libre’s Rixi Moncada on 19.29 per cent.

Kast, leader of the Republican Party, secured the presidency after winning 58 per cent of the vote, defeating his rival Jeanette Jara, who received 41 per cent. The result marks a clear shift in Chile’s political landscape following a closely watched election.

The president-elect is set to assume office on 11 March 2026, ushering in a new political cycle. His victory comes with high expectations among supporters, alongside significant challenges as he prepares to govern in a Congress that remains fragmented.

Although Kast’s party does not hold an absolute majority, the transition process is now underway, with both outgoing and incoming administrations signalling continuity in institutional procedures as Chile moves toward its next chapter in leadership.

In its petition, filed on December 3, LHRC says the shutdown violated provisions of the treaty that require member states to uphold human rights, good governance, transparency and accountability. The organisation is asking the court to declare the blackout unlawful and to bar the government from imposing future internet shutdowns without legal justification or a court order.

“The blackout had far-reaching economic and social repercussions,” said LHRC lawyer Peter Majanjara. “It paralysed online banking, disrupted digital health services and denied citizens access to critical information during a crucial election period,” he added.

Majanjara said the government’s explanation that the shutdown was meant to prevent violence failed to meet democratic standards of legality, necessity and proportionality.

Internet and mobile data services were cut nationwide without prior notice on election day, leaving Tanzania digitally isolated for seven days as voters elected councillors, MPs and a president in both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa has defended the move, saying it was aimed at stopping online criminals who were allegedly spreading inflammatory content and inciting violence. He said such activities had led to deaths, injuries and property destruction.

The Attorney General is expected to respond to the case within 45 days of receiving the court documents.

Egypt’s Giza Zoo and Orman Botanical Garden are undergoing their most ambitious transformation in decades, with 118 new animal species being introduced as part of a sweeping biodiversity expansion plan. Mohammed Kamel, Chairman of Hadayek Company, said the newly integrated zoo-garden ecosystem, spanning 114 acres, will feature four lions, three tigers, and 362 newly imported animals, all housed in redesigned open habitats aligned with international standards. Kamel emphasized that the project preserves the zoo’s historic character while elevating it to a regional and global recreational and educational landmark, noting that an African Union delegation has confirmed the development plan’s compliance with international best practices.  

180 appeals over parliamentary election results

Egypt’s Supreme Administrative Court has now received 180 appeals contesting the results of the first round of the second phase of parliamentary elections. Appeals have been filed across ten governorates, including Cairo, Dakahlia, Sharqia, Gharbia, North Sinai, and Menoufia. The court’s First Circuit will begin examining each appeal ahead of its December 7 hearing, with the law requiring decisions to be issued within 10 days of filing. The National Elections Authority will continue accepting appeals until December 4, extending work hours until 9 p.m. to meet constitutional deadlines. Losing candidates have 48 hours after results are announced to file objections.

Film controversy

A major cultural and religious backlash erupted after screenwriter Ahmed Mourad said during a Marrakech Film Festival seminar that making a film about the Prophet would be “easier” than making one about legendary singer Umm Kulthum. Prominent preacher Mazhar Shaheen blasted the comment as “recklessness and a lack of modesty towards the master of all creation,” insisting that the Prophet’s status should never be subject to comparison. Mourad’s script for the upcoming film “Al-Sit (The Lady)”, starring Mona Zaki as Umm Kulthum and directed by Marwan Hamed, has drawn intense attention . Mona Zaki reportedly arrives five hours early every shooting day to undergo extensive makeup transformations with a foreign crew.

Cairo governor wins Arab Government Excellence Award

Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber has been named Best Governor in the Arab World at the Arab Government Excellence Award (2024 - 2025), the region’s highest recognition for administrative and governmental innovation. The award , presented under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, honours exemplary governance practices across the Arab world. Saber received the honour from Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League, during a ceremony attended by ministers, ambassadors, and governors. The program aims to modernise government institutions, promote innovation, and highlight successful public-sector models capable of driving future-ready governance.

Agriculture Ministry launches nationwide poultry biosecurity campaign

Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture has launched a national awareness campaign targeting poultry farmers to strengthen biosecurity measures, especially during the winter season when respiratory and viral diseases are more prevalent. Over the past two weeks, veterinary teams conducted 610 field visits to farms and held 451 home-breeding seminars across governorates. Dr. Hamed Al-Aqnas, head of the General Authority for Veterinary Services, said the campaign trains breeders on proper disinfection procedures, controlling worker movement inside farms, preventing wild-bird entry, safe disposal of dead birds and waste and early identification of diseases requiring immediate reporting. He confirmed that the epidemiological situation is stable, with rapid-response teams on standby. The ministry plans to intensify outreach throughout high-density poultry regions during the winter.

According to the charge sheet, prosecutors allege that Kimambi obtained the money in March 2022 in Dar es Salaam, knowing it was the proceeds of crime. They also claim she earned it by working as a journalist without accreditation and by “demanding money through intimidation.” The case is set for mention on December 4 at the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court.

Kimambi confirmed in a video posted on December 2 that she had been notified of the charges, saying the government wants to force her return to Tanzania. The charges fall under the Anti-Money Laundering Act and the Economic and Organised Crime Control Act.

A former model, Kimambi became a prominent activist during the late President John Magufuli’s administration and later mobilised the recent 29 October anti-government protests from abroad. She has long pushed for electoral reforms, a new constitution and stronger safeguards for civil liberties . Although she once publicly supported President Samia Suluhu Hassan, she has since become one of the administration’s fiercest critics.

Her case comes in the midst of an apparent crackdown on high-profile activists. Earlier in November, Tanzanian influencer Jennifer “Niffer” Jovin was charged with treason, a capital offence, after participating in the viral “Nywinywi” dance challenge, which evolved into a digital protest movement during the general election.

Hondurans were voting not only for a new president, but also to renew Congress and more than 290 municipal governments. The choice seemed to pivot around two visions: continuity under a leftist approach, prioritising social justice and state-led reforms, or a shift toward conservative promises of economic growth, security and reestablishing ties with foreign investors.

The left’s setback appears rooted in deep disenchantment with the current government’s mixed record. While President Castro’s administration made modest progress on reducing violence and pursuing some social policies, many Hondurans remain frustrated by persistent poverty, weak public services, and unmet promises of meaningful reform. The rhetoric around crime, economic decline and corruption dominated, reflecting widespread demand for tangible change rather than ideological continuity.

On the right, Asfura capitalised on this frustration and on international backing. As a former mayor of the capital and a pro-business candidate, he pledged infrastructure development, foreign investment and job creation. His campaign gained additional traction after he was publicly supported by Donald Trump , a factor that stirred international attention and could reshape Honduras’ foreign alliances.

But the narrow margin and the presence of just-under-20 % for Moncada leave Honduras at a political crossroads. With Congress and local governments also up for grabs, the final outcome could reshape power balances for years. The results reflect not just a defeat for the left but a broader rejection of the political status quo and unmet promises. For a country battered by economic inequality, violence and political disillusionment, the vote seems to reflect a desire for pragmatic solutions over ideological loyalties.

This concludes our live coverage of Honduras’s 2025 general elections. After a tense and closely contested voting day, the ballot count is now under way as the country awaits clarity on its next president. Provisional results are expected in the coming hours. Follow Global South World for continued updates and post-election analysis from Honduras.

01:13 GMT: An international observer was expelled from a vote-counting centre amid tensions during the tallying process. The incident comes as conflicts and allegations of possible fraud emerged while ballots were being counted in several polling stations.

00:00 GMT: Polls have now closed and the vote count is under way.

23:00 GMT: Polling stations were originally set to close at 5:00 p.m. local time, but authorities have indicated they may remain open until 6:00 p.m. because of long queues. The extension aims to ensure that everyone already in line can vote as part of the general election.

22:30 GMT: Honduran President Xiomara Castro cast her vote, accompanied by her grandson José Manuel, during the country’s general election.

18:55 GMT: Honduran President Xiomara Castro said: “The satisfaction we feel goes beyond what I personally think — it reflects the sentiment of the people. We have intervened in all areas,” in her remarks on today’s elections.

17:25 GMT: The EU Election Observation Mission has deployed 138 observers across the country for today’s vote. Teams are visiting polling centres in every department, filing reports through a dedicated app that forwards their assessments to the mission’s central team in Tegucigalpa.

17:05 GMT: Nasry Asfura, the National Party’s presidential candidate, has arrived at the polling centre where he is set to cast his vote.

15:45 GMT: Tensions rose near a polling centre when some supporters of Salvador Nasralla confronted journalists covering Sunday’s presidential election. Several reporters were attacked while documenting the incident, underscoring the growing friction between media crews and Nasralla’s sympathisers.

15:15 GMT: Salvador Nasralla, the Liberal Party (PLH) presidential candidate, cast his vote in Tegucigalpa, accompanied by his wife, Iroshka Elvir.

14:15 GMT: Libre’s presidential candidate, Rixi Moncada, cast her vote, arriving at the polling station accompanied by political allies.

13:30 GMT: “The only results that count are those issued by the CNE,” said Ana Paola Hall, the council’s presiding member, on Sunday morning. With that statement, Honduras enters its most tense election day in a decade, as voters decide who will succeed President Xiomara Castro.

13:00 GMT:  Honduras’s polls open as voters begin a decisive day for the country’s political future.

11:47 GMT: Honduras’s Armed Forces have reiterated their commitment to remain strictly impartial throughout the electoral process. They emphasised what is set out in Article 284 of the Electoral Law, which makes clear that the final declaration of results is the exclusive responsibility of the National Electoral Council (CNE).

10:26 GMT : Electoral Commission confirms that the use of the biometric device is mandatory

10:15 GMT : Ahead of the polls, the head of the Electoral Mission of the Organisation of American States (OAS) urges Hondurans to go out in their numbers to vote in a peaceful manner and calls on all actors to respect the citizens' right to choose while awaiting the results that will be delivered by the CNE

09:45 GMT : Honduras rejects US 'interference' as Trump wades into election debate

Honduran Vice Foreign Minister Gerardo Torres Zelaya sharply criticised US President Donald Trump for interfering in the country’s internal affairs ahead of the 30 November elections.

Speaking at a press conference in Tegucigalpa, he argued that Washington’s recent moves show clear double standards in its public stance on drug trafficking. Torres Zelaya condemned what he described as external pressure, warning that Honduras would not accept actions that could pave the way for a return to the “narco-state” the country fought to overcome. More here

09:38 GMT : Trump to pardon Honduras’ former leader Hernández, serving time for narcotrafficking

Donald Trump announced on Friday that he will grant a full pardon to former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, who is currently serving a 45-year sentence in the United States after being convicted of drug-trafficking and weapons-related offences.

The announcement, made just two days before Honduras goes to the polls , immediately sent shockwaves through the country. In his statement, Trump insisted that Hernández had been “treated very harshly and unfairly,” framing the pardon as a corrective measure rather than a political intervention. Read more

Polls open at 7:00 AM local time (13:00 GMT) and close at 5:00 PM local time (23:00 GMT).

What to know

Overview of the main contenders

The contest centres on three figures who represent different political blocs and visions for the country:

Key issues in the election

Voting and electoral context

Historical background

Honduras arrives at this vote after a politically charged decade marked by contested elections, corruption scandals tied to past administrations, and persistent security challenges. Outgoing president Xiomara Castro’s government emphasised social spending and a tougher posture on gangs; her endorsement of Moncada frames the vote partly as a referendum on those policies . International players, including the U.S., are paying close attention to both the substance of the campaigns and the conduct of the vote.

Rixi Moncada is a veteran of public service: former teacher, lawyer, magistrate, finance minister and, until recently, defence minister. She is the official candidate of the ruling party, seeking to carry forward a “refoundational” project for the state.

Her platform centres on strengthening public institutions, defending state-controlled services and natural resources, and pushing for social justice . She frames her campaign as a defence of the “public good” against privatisation pressures.

Nasry "Tito" Asfura (Partido Nacional — Right / Conservative)

Nasry Asfura, 67, is a businessman and former mayor of Tegucigalpa, with a track record in infrastructure and urban administration. He runs as the candidate of the conservative National Party, pursuing a pro-business, free-market agenda.

His plan emphasises legal certainty, investment in energy and infrastructure, and job creation through public-private partnerships. Asfura pitches himself as a pragmatic “executor”, someone who can deliver stability, economic growth and institutional order.

Salvador Nasralla (Partido Liberal — Centrist / Reformist)

Salvador Nasralla is perhaps the most internationally familiar of the trio, a former television presenter turned politician, who previously served as vice-president. Now 72, he again enters the presidential race under the banner of the Liberal Party.

His proposal centres on tackling corruption, modernising the state and reviving the economy through support for small and medium enterprises, improved infrastructure, formal employment and social investments. He promises sweeping institutional reforms, including a revamped labour code, streamlined regulations and support for migrants and Hondurans abroad.

The army announced that the 53-year-old Embalo had been removed from office, suspended all state institutions, and closed the country’s borders and airspace. A nightly curfew has also been imposed. Media reports indicate that Embalo and several high-ranking officials were detained during the takeover.

The coup comes just days after the presidential election, in which both Embalo and his main rival, Fernando Dias, claimed victory before official results were announced.

Guinea-Bissau has a long history of political instability, with Thursday’s takeover marking the fifth successful and ninth attempted military coup since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1974.

The frontrunners for the 30 November elections are Rixi Moncada (Libre), Salvador Nasralla (Liberal) and Nasry Asfura (National Party). Their final campaign events were marked by mutual accusations of fraud, limited policy proposals and an increasingly fragile institutional environment, including internal disputes within the National Electoral Council (CNE). The military’s role in safeguarding electoral materials has also fuelled public suspicion.

Hall warns of legal action over delayed GPS for electoral kits

Ana Paola Hall, president of Honduras’s National Electoral Council (CNE), has sounded the alarm over the delayed arrival of GPS devices meant to track the transport of voting material. She says that while shipments of election kits began on schedule, legal and financial consequences may follow if the GPS units don’t arrive. According to her, vehicles transporting the materials do have tracking, but individual boxes remain unmonitored until the promised GPS is installed.

EU election observers hear threats to press freedom

The European Union ’s Election Observation Mission (EOM) met with the Honduran press this week, learning about growing political risks for journalists covering the election. The Union’s team met with the Honduran Journalists’ Association, where media professionals expressed concerns over intimidation and threats tied to the heated political climate.

Nasralla denounces attacks on Liberal supporters during campaign

Salvador Nasralla, presidential candidate for the Liberal Party, accused political opponents, especially members of Libre, of assaulting his supporters during a campaign caravan in Tegucigalpa. He claimed that militants of the ruling party threw stones and used sticks, escalating fears of political violence on the eve of the vote.

US warns of sanctions for backing criminal terror groups

The US has issued a stark warning: any person or entity in Honduras that provides financial, logistical, or protective support to designated criminal organisations, such as MS-13 or Mexican drug cartels, could face serious consequences, including asset freezes, migration restrictions, and terrorism charges. Washington’s move comes after it labelled eight transnational criminal groups as "terrorist organisations," citing their threat to regional stability.

However, 47-year-old Fernando Dias also seems to be in a comfortable lead.

After being disqualified from standing as a candidate, opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira has thrown his weight and support behind the Party for Social Renewal (PRS), a party headed by political newcomer Fernando Dias.

Expectations of the citizenry

During a conversation with Abigail Johnson Boakye, a journalist with Global South World, Samba M. Baldé, a Bissau-Guinean journalist, shared that despite the hype surrounding the upcoming elections, electorates seem to be less engaged, as they are tired of slogans and manifestos and want real solutions.

"Engagement exists, but it's uneven because voters react to something that has certain benefits than to only promises because for voters, when candidates fail to translate their proposals into real impact or how they can really impact society, public interest quickly drops. ...But people are, for example, no longer satisfied with slogans. They want clear plans and measurable results in Guinea-Bissau," Samba said.

On November 23, 860,000 voters head to the polls to decide whether their country can finally break free from decades of political turbulence.

Who is Fernando Dias?

Although new to the political spotlight, Dias is not entirely new to public life. His journey reflects a careful mix of academic training, political apprenticeship and a recent surge in national prominence.

He is a trained lawyer, holding both a Bachelor's degree in Law and a postgraduate qualification in Criminal Law from the Bissau Faculty of Law.

Before emerging as a presidential contender, he had built a steady career within state institutions, serving as the first Vice-President of the National People’s Assembly during the 11th legislature.

His roots in party politics run deeper than his “newcomer” label suggests.

He once served as Secretary-General of the youth wing of the Party for Social Renewal (PRS), eventually becoming its interim leader following a leadership vacancy. In June 2024, he was elected as president of the PRS.

He promises security for the people and desires to ensure the military does not interfere in the West African country's politics again.

"Our mission is clear: free Guinea-Bissau from the shackles of dictatorship and return power to the people. With faith, unity and courage, we will win the polls and build a new time for our nation," he wrote on his Facebook wall.

Background

Guinea-Bissau’s presidential and legislative races come at a moment when institutions are strained, and trust is fragile.

Umaro Sissoco Embaló's bid is seen as controversial because he has strategically reshaped the political arena through sudden dismissals and the appointment of a new prime minister ahead of the vote.

Heavyweight Domingos Simões Pereira and the historic PAIGC party-led coalition, PAI-Terra Ranka, were barred from contesting after the Supreme Court ruled their paperwork incomplete in October. This marks the first time the PAIGC party will be absent on a ballot paper.

Coups d'états, dissolved parliaments, and stalled reforms have marked Guinea-Bissau’s history. Embaló dissolved the National Assembly in December 2023, claiming an attempted coup, and left the country with no operational parliament for nearly two years.

Although his tenure ended in February 2025, Embaló stayed in the seat of power.

What they said

“This sad episode, which involves some general and senior officers of our Armed Forces, jeopardises the peace and stability so desired for socio-economic development and the attraction of foreign investment,” the armed forces said in a statement after announcing the latest coup plot. Deputy chief of staff General Mamadu Ture Kuruma told journalists: “This is indeed a new attempt to subvert the constitutional order, on the eve of the start of the election campaign for the legislative and presidential elections on November 23.” 

Jara emphasised that nearly half the electorate had cast a ballot for neither of the two leading candidates. She pledged to spend the coming days “listening carefully” to those voters and bringing a broader spectrum of Chileans into her proposals for the second round.

The candidate also sharpened her contrast with Kast, delivering one of her strongest criticisms of the Republican leader to date. “I regret that in the 16 years Kast served as a deputy, no one can recall a single law or agreement he passed for the good of the country. That is the reality, that is the reality,” she said. She added that her campaign would work to ensure Chileans understood “the differences between what it means for Chile’s future to be led by the far-right versus by progressivism”, arguing that the latter had historically secured advances in social, political and economic rights.

Electoral authorities will publish detailed results in the coming days, including regional and municipal breakdowns, as part of efforts to guarantee transparency. With no candidate surpassing the required 50 per cent threshold, the race will now move to a decisive runoff scheduled for 14 December.

This concludes our live coverage of Chile’s 2025 general elections. With a highly competitive first round and no candidate securing the majority needed for an outright victory, the country now moves toward a runoff that will determine its next president. Follow Global South World for continued updates as Chile heads into a decisive second round.

23:30 GMT: Early results show tight race between Jara and Kast with 52% of votes counted

With 52% of the first-round ballots tallied, Jeannette Jara leads with 26% while José Antonio Kast follows closely with 24%. As no candidate reached the 50% threshold, Chile is headed toward a second-round showdown next month between two sharply contrasting political projects, one on the left and one on the right, if these results hold.

21:40 GMT: Vote counting begins across Chile.

Polling stations have started opening ballot boxes and tallying votes, kicking off the official counting process after the close of Chile’s election day.

21:20 GMT: Poll workers begin preparing ballot materials for the count.

21:00 GMT: Polling stations begin closing across Chile.

19:20 GMT: Former Interior Minister Carolina Tohá arrives at Estación Mapocho to cast her vote.

17:29 GMT: All eight presidential candidates have now cast their votes.

16:10 GMT: Jeannette Jara casts her vote as supporters celebrate outside the polling station.

Jeannette Jara, presidential candidate of the ruling left-wing coalition and member of the Communist Party, has cast her vote, drawing cheers and reactions from supporters gathered outside the polling station during Chile’s general election.

15:54 GMT: Candidate Jeannette Jara arrives to vote, greeted by supporters.

Presidential candidate Jeannette Jara has just arrived at her polling station, accompanied by supporters who gathered to back her as she casts her vote. Her arrival adds to the busy electoral atmosphere as Chile’s voting day continues.

14:50 GMT: Candidate Franco Parisi casts his vote, comments on Chile’s political divide.

After voting, presidential candidate Franco Parisi expressed his view on the election dynamics, stating: “The Communist candidate should be going through, and we to a second round, because of the division. At the last moment, people will realize that the far right harms Chile.” His remarks underline the tension and polarization present in today’s electoral process.

14:40 GMT: Jeannette Jara steps into election day with her dog and a suitcase in hand.

Seen leaving home accompanied by her dog and carrying a small suitcase, Jeannette Jara prepared for a long election day ahead. The moment added a casual, human touch to the political morning, drawing attention as candidates and officials begin to move across the country.

13:40 GMT: Candidate Evelyn Matthei emphasizes her record of cross-party teamwork.

After casting her vote, presidential candidate Evelyn Matthei highlighted her experience working across political lines, noting: “I have a long trajectory of working with all teams. When I was mayor, there were many people from the left with whom we worked very well.” Her message seeks to project cooperation and stability as key pillars of her candidacy.

13:30 GMT: Former President Bachelet urges unity: “May the next government build on all that came before”.

After casting her vote, ex-President Michelle Bachelet called for continuity and collaboration, urging the incoming administration to construct its legacy on the foundations laid by all previous governments. Her message resonates as a plea for unity amid a deeply polarized political environment.

13:10 GMT: Jose Antonio Kast, presidential candidate of the far-right Republican Party, votes in the presidential election.

He said that if he does not reach the second round, he will support a candidate who is not from the current government. He also added that if he does not win in the runoff, this will be the last election he takes part in.

13:00 GMT: Boric calls on Chileans to shape the country’s future through their vote.

After casting his ballot, President Gabriel Boric reminded voters of the profound meaning of democracy: “It is you, Chilean men and women, who determine the future of Chile. Each of you has the same right to choose, regardless of birthplace, wealth, or political idea — that is the essence of democracy expressed today.”

12:50 GMT: Johannes Kaiser, presidential candidate of the far-right National Libertarian Party, votes in the presidential election.

12:30 GMT: Global South Election Live

12:00 GMT: Boric arrives at the polls accompanied by his daughter

President Gabriel Boric has just shown up to cast his vote, walking into the polling station alongside his daughter — a symbolic moment that underscores both his personal commitment to the democratic process and the familial legacy at stake in today’s election.

11:30 GMT: Early turnout builds as Chileans head to the polls under mandatory voting rules

As voting gets underway across the country, Chileans are already arriving steadily at polling stations, driven in part by the country's mandatory voting system. In Chile's 2025 elections, all Chilean citizens are required to vote or face a financial penalty. The rule is designed to increase participation and ensure results that better reflect the full electorate. Exceptions apply for people who are ill, far from their polling place, abroad, or have a certified disability and foreign residents with voting rights are not subject to mandatory voting.

11:00 GMT: Chile’s polls open as voters begin a decisive day for the country’s political future.

09:35 GMT : What is at stake for Chile’s democracy

The 2025 election will determine whether Chile moves toward a renewed social-democratic model or shifts to a more conservative and security-driven agenda. The outcome will influence major policy debates: the role of the state in pensions and healthcare, the country’s response to inequality, its migration strategy and its long-term energy transition. With economic uncertainty and public dissatisfaction still high, voters are evaluating not only policies but also trust in political institutions.

Chile’s democratic resilience is also being tested. A fragmented Congress will likely force the next president—regardless of ideology—to negotiate complex alliances, raising concerns about governability. The election is therefore not only about leadership but about defining the country’s political direction after years of instability. Whichever candidate wins, they will face the challenge of restoring confidence in institutions and delivering credible reforms in a divided nation.

You can read more about the current state of its democracy here.

November 15, 19:13 GMT: Preparations and inspections are made for the election

Polls are expected to open at 8 am local time (11 am GMT) and close at 6 pm local time (9 pm GMT).

What to know

Overview of the eight candidates

The race features eight key contenders: Jeannette Jara, José Antonio Kast, Carolina Tohá, Evelyn Matthei, Franco Parisi, Ximena Rincón, Marco Enríquez-Ominami, and Rodolfo Carter. They present sharply different visions for Chile’s economic and political future.

On the left, Jeannette Jara proposes expanding social welfare, strengthening public healthcare and promoting labour rights. Carolina Tohá and Marco Enríquez-Ominami also support progressive taxation, gender equality initiatives and environmental transitions, aiming to respond to the social demands that emerged after the 2019 unrest.

On the right, José Antonio Kast leads a bloc prioritising security, strict immigration control and market-friendly reforms. Evelyn Matthei and Rodolfo Carter emphasise institutional modernisation, police reinforcement and incentives for private investment.

Meanwhile, centrist candidates such as Ximena Rincón and Franco Parisi promote technocratic reforms, public-private partnerships and economic stability. Together, the eight contenders reflect a fragmented electorate seeking both stability and significant political change.

Among the eight contenders, José Antonio Kast and Jeannette Jara have emerged as the leading candidates, representing the clearest ideological contrast in the race. Current polling and expert analysis suggest that neither is likely to secure an outright majority in the first round, making a second-round runoff the most probable scenario. You can see more about these candidates here.

Key issues in the election

Crime and immigration dominate voter concerns. According to an October poll by Activa, these issues rank highest among the electorate, followed by unemployment and healthcare. Although Chile has traditionally experienced lower violent crime rates than other countries in the region, recent increases in organised crime, theft, and corruption have shifted public perception.

“I had to install remote surveillance cameras [and] chain the tables, and on weekends I hired a security guard to help keep watch,” Leidy Paredes, a nightclub owner in Santiago, told The Associated Press.

In response to public pressure, all major candidates have proposed tough-on-crime policies. Kast and Kaiser have focused on punitive measures, while Jara has advocated expanding the prison system and improving border security using advanced technology.

The issue of immigration has also taken centre stage. Between 2018 and 2024, migration to Chile increased by 46.8%. Although the rate slowed between 2022 and 2024, candidates across the spectrum have addressed the topic. While Kast supports mass deportations, Jara has proposed a temporary registration system for undocumented migrants.

Chile's economic challenges are another significant issue. The country is experiencing an economic slowdown, with unemployment at approximately 9%—among the highest in Latin America. Candidates have presented various strategies to address affordability, with Jara focusing on wage increases and housing, and Kast proposing business incentives.

Voting and electoral context

Voter turnout is expected to be higher than in 2021, when only 47% of eligible voters participated. As of 2024, there are 15,450,377 registered voters in Chile.

The November 16 vote will also determine the composition of the legislature, with all 155 seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 23 out of 50 Senate seats up for election.

Jeannette Jara is currently projected to win the first round by a narrow margin. However, if she proceeds to the runoff, she may face a consolidated right-wing challenge.

Historical background

Chile enters the 2025 presidential election after a turbulent political decade marked by social unrest, constitutional debates and growing public frustration with inequality and insecurity. The 2019 protests revealed deep structural tensions, pushing issues such as pensions, healthcare, wages and public services to the centre of national debate. Although the constitutional reform process ultimately failed twice, it changed the political landscape and intensified demands for long-term reforms.

At the same time, crime and migration have become top voter concerns, reshaping political narratives across the spectrum. The return to mandatory voting is expected to bring millions of additional voters to the polls, potentially altering traditional turnout patterns. With eight candidates and no clear majority, analysts widely expect the election to move into a second round, where alliances and negotiation will become decisive. You can read more about Chile’s historical political context here .

Police officers continued security operations on public transport in Tegucigalpa on Thursday, November 13, even as campaign materials from presidential contenders filled the capital ahead of the 30 November 2025 elections. The timing of the renewed emergency decree has sparked criticism, with residents arguing that it restricts constitutional freedoms, including movement, assembly, and association, at a crucial moment in the electoral calendar.

“People won’t be able to go out and protest or anything. They won’t be able to do many things at night. It benefits them, not us,” said merchant César Molina, reflecting widespread unease among voters. Others voiced deeper distrust of the authorities. “Security in this country is useless because they are the ones playing tricks. That’s why we are the way we are,” said taxi driver César García.

The government defends the extension, pointing to reductions in crime as evidence that the security strategy is working. For its part, the National Electoral Council (CNE), the body responsible for overseeing and ensuring the transparency of Honduran elections , insists it is guaranteeing a fair process in the upcoming vote.

In October 2019, long-standing frustrations erupted into mass demonstrations. What began as a protest over a metro fare hike quickly grew into the country’s largest social mobilisation since the return of democracy.

At the time, President Sebastián Piñera, leading a centre-right government, initially responded with fare freezes and limited concessions, but as protests escalated, he declared a state of emergency and deployed the military to the streets. In response, political parties across the spectrum agreed to launch a constitutional process to address public discontent.

Gabriel Boric, then a young MP and former student leader, emerged as one of the key figures associated with this moment of political renewal. He supported the constitutional process and criticised the government ’s handling of the protests, arguing for deeper social reforms within a democratic framework.

In the 2021 presidential election, Boric faced José Antonio Kast, a conservative candidate who campaigned on security and a more traditional economic model. Boric won the run-off with just over 55%, becoming Chile’s youngest president and symbolising a generational shift in national politics.

This recent history continues to shape Chilean politics today. The experience of social mobilisation, constitutional debates, and shifting priorities has influenced voter expectations ahead of the upcoming election. Some Chileans still seek the transformative agenda associated with the post-2019 period, while others prioritise stability, security, and gradual reforms.

Following a disputed October 29 presidential election, Tanzania’s parliament has confirmed Mwigulu Nchemba, a former finance minister and close ally of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, as the new prime minister. The appointment , backed by a near-unanimous parliamentary vote, comes amid unrest and allegations of electoral irregularities that have drawn criticism from opposition groups and human rights observers. President Hassan, who won by a landslide according to official results, has dismissed claims of vote-rigging. The government projects 6% economic growth in 2025, driven by large-scale infrastructure projects, despite reduced foreign aid and political tensions.

Tanzania’s Amsons Group challenges Dangote with Kenyan cement acquisition

Tanzania’s Amsons Group has made a bold entry into Kenya’s cement market after acquiring a 29.2%  stake in East Africa Portland Cement (EAPC). The $5.6 million deal, executed through its subsidiary Kalahari Cement, involved purchasing 26.3 million shares from Associated International Cement Limited (AIC) and Cementia Holding AG. The acquisition, finalised in late July, strengthens Amsons’ position as one of the largest shareholders in the Nairobi-listed EAPC. Managing Director Edha Nahdi described the move as a strategic investment to reshape Kenya’s cement landscape through enhanced production capabilities and innovation, adding that it aligns with the company’s goal of building long-term regional value.

UN calls for probe into post-election killings in Tanzania

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has urged Tanzanian authorities to investigate reports of hundreds of killings, detentions, and disappearances following the October 29 elections. The UN Human Rights Office cited credible information suggesting security forces removed bodies from streets and hospitals to undisclosed locations in what may be an attempt to conceal evidence. Türk called on the government to disclose the whereabouts of missing persons and return bodies to families for burial. He also demanded the release of opposition figures, including Chadema leader Tundu Lissu, and condemned the arbitrary detention of more than 150 people, some reportedly charged with treason.

Tanzania’s inflation hits two-year high amid unrest

Tanzania’s annual inflation rate rose to 3.5% in October 2025, the highest since June 2023, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The rise , driven mainly by higher food and beverage prices, reflects growing economic instability following post-election unrest. Year-on-year food inflation reached 7.4%, while modest monthly price declines were observed in essentials such as poultry, bread, beans, and fuel. Despite the uptick, analysts note that the overall inflation rate remains manageable but could worsen if political instability continues to disrupt supply chains and investor confidence.

Rwanda and Tanzania advance cross-border payment integration

Rwanda and Tanzania have begun technical discussions to link their national retail payment systems — Tanzania’s Instant Payment System (TIPS) and Rwanda’s National Payment Switch (RSWITCH). The initiative, discussed during a high-level meeting in Kigali, aims to enable instant, low-cost money transfers between bank accounts and mobile wallets across the two nations. Once implemented, the system will simplify cross-border transactions for citizens and businesses, supporting trade and financial innovation in the East African region.

Jeannette Jara, a former labour minister and Communist Party member, has focused her message on social welfare and equality. Alongside her emphasis on workers’ rights and gender equity, she has underscored access to quality healthcare and investment in renewable energy as central goals. Jara has spoken of strengthening primary healthcare, expanding home delivery of medicines for older adults and chronic patients, and increasing diagnostic equipment in local clinics — particularly mammography machines, given Chile’s high breast cancer prevalence.

Recent polls suggest Jara holds a narrow lead in first-round voting intentions, though Kast could benefit from a broader right-leaning coalition in a potential runoff. This reflects a deeply divided electorate, where competing visions — one prioritising state support and social protection, the other market freedom and border security — are shaping one of Chile’s most polarised elections in recent decades.

Speaking from the Casa Grande del Pueblo in La Paz, Arce reflected on his administration’s achievements and offered an apology to the Bolivian people for the difficulties faced under his government. He insisted that every effort had been made to confront the challenges of recent years “with determination and honesty”.

The president said the internal rifts within MAS began when Morales sought to maintain control of the party and prevent its democratisation, asserting that Bolivia’s left needed to “return power to social organisations” rather than allow it to revolve around a single figure. Arce also recalled the June 2024 coup attempt, saying he leaves office “through the main door and with his head held high”.

His speech marks the end of an era: nearly two decades of MAS dominance in Bolivian politics . The party suffered a historic defeat in the August election, with its candidate winning just over three per cent of the vote — a result that analysts see as a reflection of the deep divisions within Bolivia’s once-unified left.

“Of course, we’ve seen these election results, but it does not, of course, undermine the incredible, enormous relationship the Prime Minister has with President Trump, and the accomplishments that we have been able to get to because of this relationship that they have forged together,” said Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian.

“We have a bond that is stronger than ever between Israel and the United States right now, and of course, it’s based on our shared democratic values and dedication to our security and peace for countries in the entire free world,” Bedrosian added.

Mamdani won more than 50% of the votes to become New York’s first Muslim mayor and first mayor born in Africa , as well as the youngest mayor since 1892. 

During his campaign, Mamdani was tough on Israel, asserting that the country was committing genocide in Gaza, where nearly 70,000 have been killed in a dragging battle between Israeli forces and the Palestinian group Hamas. 

Mamdani had also labeled Netanyahu a “ war criminal.”

For his part, Trump, who had endorsed the No. 2 candidate for New York City mayor, Andrew Cuomo, said any Jew who voted for Mamdani is a “proven and self-professed JEW HATER, is a stupid person!!!”

“After hearing the government’s announcement that we could resume work today, we thanked God that we’re back to our jobs, even though things aren’t quite the same yet," said Emmanuel Adenia, a motorcycle taxi driver. " People are still a bit fearful here and there, but it’s not too bad because we’ve been sitting at home for nearly a week without work,” he told Viory.

“Customers are still a bit fearful, coming one by one, but we are satisfied because that’s just the reality of things right now," said Ester Joel Shangarai, a local vegetable seller.

The government lifted curfews and partially restored internet access this week, easing restrictions imposed during a period of nationwide shutdown. The unrest erupted following the announcement by Tanzania’s electoral commission that President Samia had secured 98 percent of the vote, a result widely rejected by opposition groups as fraudulent.

Despite a heavy security presence, Samia was sworn in for a second term on Monday. Opposition leaders claim that more than 800 people have died in clashes related to the election.

“The corrupt Biya regime in Cameroon hunts its political opponents, enables Wagner’s illicit activities, and has created conditions for jihadist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS to thrive and fuel the Anglophone crisis,” Risch wrote on November 4.

The US senator was referring to the Wagner Group, a Russian state-funded paramilitary organisation, and the Boko Haram, a jihadist militant group that has troops in Nigeria , Chad, Niger and Mali.

While Washington has had diplomatic ties with Youanda since 1960, Risch asserted that Cameroon “is not a US partner.”

“It’s time to reassess this relationship before the blowback gets worse,” he said. 

A former French colony, Cameroon has always struggled with managing the divide between its Anglophone and Francophone regions.

This age-old conflict has caused separatist groups to mushroom, further intensifying the instability of the Central African country.

While criticisms of the 92-year-old Biya are not new, Risch’s comments are significant as the US has a formal allyship with Cameroon. Its president, Donald Trump , has also been keen on peacemaking during his second term. 

In an archived page in the US Department of State Website, Cameroon was described as a “key” player in regional stability and a “regional partner in countering terrorism in the Lake Chad Region and anti-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Guinea.”

The two countries have had a bilateral investment treaty in place since 1986, and Washington has provided nearly $1.7 billion in foreign assistance since 2001.

“I therefore ask all Cameroonians, wherever they are, to stay at home for three days to demonstrate their dissatisfaction and their commitment to fight until the truth of the ballot box, which we claim, prevails and we can recover our victory,” he said. 

Tchiroma made the call in a video to his supporters. Fearing his security , he has been in an unknown location since the proclamation, when he claimed protesters outside his house were being shot at. 

If Cameroonians heed his call, the “ghost town” protest will run until November 6 — the same day Biya is scheduled for inauguration for his eighth term as Cameroon president.

Evelyn Matthei – Representing the traditional right, Matthei enters the race with support from RN, UDI and Evópoli. Having served as senator and minister, she runs on experience and seeks to consolidate the centre-right vote.

José Antonio Kast – Leader of the Republican Party and prominent figure of Chile’s far right, Kast is standing again to reclaim dominance for his faction. He has added the support of the Social Christian Party, which aligns with evangelical interests.

Johannes Kaiser – A former Republican MP turned founder of the National Libertarian Party, Kaiser offers an even more radical right-wing platform than Kast, emphasising migration control, economic liberalism and a minimal state.

Franco Parisi – A returning presidential hopeful, the economist and academic will run under the “Partido de la Gente”. Known for his anti-establishment message, Parisi seeks to appeal to voters disillusioned with traditional politics.

Marco Enríquez-Ominami – Known as ME-O, the former socialist MP has entered his fifth presidential race—the most by any candidate in Chile’s modern democracy . Running as an independent, he continues to pursue the presidency with personal branding and past name recognition.

Harold Mayne-Nicollls – A sports administrator and former ANFP president, Mayne-Nicholls is also running as an independent. He draws on his leadership in the Pan American Games and appeals to voters seeking a fresh face beyond traditional political parties.

Eduardo Artés – Representing the radical left, Artés is a teacher and seasoned political activist who backs regimes such as Venezuela and North Korea. For his third consecutive presidential bid, he runs without a major party, gathering the required signatures independently.

As Chile prepares for this decisive vote, analysts say the crowded field underscores the volatility of the nation’s political landscape and mirrors broader Latin American trends of fragmentation and challenge to mainstream parties.

Hassan urged "unity and solidarity" in her speech, but she also claimed that some of the young demonstrators were from "outside Tanzania."

"Our defence and security agencies continue to investigate and examine in detail what happened," she added.

The election, held on 29 October 2025, has attracted significant global attention due to the exclusion of major opposition parties and reports of unrest in key cities. Concerns about the fairness and inclusiveness of the process have sparked debate among international observers.

Suluhu, who initially assumed the presidency in 2021, now faces the challenge of addressing criticism regarding democratic practices while consolidating her mandate. Her leadership will be closely scrutinised as she navigates these political pressures.

For investors and the international community, the election outcome raises questions about Tanzania’s political stability, governance, and the broader implications for democracy in East Africa . The president’s call for unity seeks to reassure citizens and external stakeholders alike.

The statement did not address widespread allegations of electoral fraud .

“Cameroonians have exercised their free will and made a rational choice, one based on experience and wisdom, a choice that guarantees peace and stability in Cameroon,” Communication Minister Rene Emmanuel Sadi said. 

Biya’s latest win — his eighth since first taking power in 1982 — has been widely contested.

While his 53.66% vote share was his lowest since 1992, it was still enough to secure him another seven-year term, which would end just shortly before his 100th birthday and extend his rule to 49 years.

Protests before and after the official proclamation on 27 October have been marred by violence. Four people were killed in a demonstration in Douala, Cameroon’s commercial capital, a day before Biya’s victory was confirmed.

Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who placed second in the Constitutional Council’s tally, has repeatedly insisted that he was the true winner and called on Cameroonians to protest by staying away from work.

Sadi said such “hasty” declarations of victory and calls for insurrection threaten not only peace but also economic development.

“The Government strongly condemns the hasty proclamation of victory by one candidate, as well as the radical challenge to the final verdict of the Constitutional Council confirming the victory of incumbent President Paul Biya,” he wrote. 

“These are all unacceptable actions, for which both the perpetrators and the instigators are responsible.” 

Biya is set to begin his eighth term during his inauguration on November 6.

Meanwhile, in Ivory Coast, President Alassane Ouattara coasted to victory after earning 90% of votes cast in the October 25 elections . The win handed Ouattara his fourth, five-year term, which would extend his rule to 20 years. 

More astounding was President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s win in Tanzania, as the country’s electoral body declared she won 98% of the vote in a widely participated election — 87% of registered voters turned out, compared with 50% in 2020. 

While these electoral wins are separated by distance and circumstance, the three are bound by ties that extend beyond their status as reelectionists and leaders in Africa. 

Opposition barred

One of the most glaring similarities between the Cameroon, Ivory Coast and Tanzania elections was that major opposition bets were barred from running — many of them disqualified on questionable grounds. 

In Cameroon, veteran politician and lawyer Maurice Kamto was dropped from the candidates' list after his party, the Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon, fell into disarray after internal disputes led to rival endorsements. Before his candidacy came to an abrupt end, he was widely regarded as the strongest challenger to Biya. 

Ivory Coast’s electoral body stripped two challengers of their eligibility: Tidjane Thiam, whose acquisition of a French citizenship was seen as an automatic forfeiture of his Ivorian citizenship, and Laurent Gbagbo, the country’s former president who was barred over a 2018 criminal conviction.

Two opposition candidates were also prohibited from running in Tanzania, namely Chadema’s Tundu Lissu, who spent two months in jail for treason over his calls for fair elections, and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo.

Irregularities 

With the questionable disqualification of key challengers, many have alleged irregularities in the three elections. 

Even before this year’s polls, Cameroon has often been portrayed as a country practicing electoral autocracy — meaning it holds elections regularly, but ones that fall short of democratic standards. 

Opposition bet Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who placed second according to the Constitutional Court’s results, claimed he had won the October 12 vote with a 54.8% share of votes, based on partial data. 

Allegations of irregularities in the Ivorian polls primarily stem from the removal of key candidates from the ballots, resulting in what observers label as a “non-competitive” election. Residents said the election was held under a climate of fear, too, with a heavy police presence observed in the days leading up to, and after, the vote. 

In Tanzania, evidence of electoral fraud was more blatant, as the country entered an information blackout with the internet shut down. The European Union later slammed the “lack of level playing field” and “large number of fatalities and significant injuries” in the polls.

Protest and violence

Four protesters were killed a day before Biya’s proclamation in Cameroon, with many more reported to be hurt in demonstrations that have taken over major parts of the country, including its commercial capital, Douala. 

Biya has acknowledged this violence, but his government was quick to flip the script, blaming “perpetrators and instigators” who alleged electoral fraud for fuelling post-election chaos.

Meanwhile, protests in Ivory Coast had largely been quashed by the government as dozens of demonstrators were arrested for public order offences, in what Amnesty International described as a clear sign of repression.

Post-election violence in Tanzania was the most alarming, as the opposition claimed the death toll had reached 700. The actual count, they said, could be much higher as more killings took place during a nighttime curfew. 

Tanzania’s foreign minister dismissed the violence as a "few isolated pockets of incidents here and there,” adding the internet shutdown was a necessary measure to save lives. 

“It was very certain that Biya was going to clinch another victory,” said Amindeh Blaise Atabong, a Yaounde-based journalist who covers politics and society. “He has the apparatus.”

At 92, Biya is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders and the world’s oldest head of state. Over 42 years in power, he has built a vast political machinery that critics say extends well beyond the bounds of legality — and deep into the electoral process itself.

Atabong said many Cameroonians have lost faith in the ballot box entirely. The International Foundation for Electoral Systems has described the country as an “electoral autocracy,” one that holds regular votes but fails to meet basic democratic standards.

Protests erupted even before the official proclamation of results, triggering violent clashes in Douala, Cameroon’s commercial capital, that left at least four people dead. 

There were even reports from opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who finished second with 35.2% of the vote, of civilians outside his home being shot at hours before the announcement.

“It was very, very tense, and it has only gotten worse since then, especially after the proclamation of the results,” Atabong told Global South World. 

Biya has acknowledged the post-election violence in a brief statement released online shortly after being declared the winner, in what was his first and only public comment since re-election.

As protests swell across the country, uncertainty now hangs over Biya’s new seven-year term — including whether he will even be able to see it through, which would leave him in office until just shy of his 100th birthday.

“It's possible,” Atabong said when asked if Biya could step down before the term ends. “We've seen that in other places in Africa, with the most recent example being Madagascar, where the president had to flee because of popular protests.”

“So, everything is possible. We can’t rule that out.”

Change or nothing

Biya is set to be inaugurated on November 6 in Cameroon’s capital, Yaoundé. 

Atabong said the president returns to power over a country increasingly weary of the same leadership, with frustration especially high among the youth, a generation that feels locked out of opportunity and excluded from decision-making.

“The youth are really frustrated. Most of them are trying to leave the country. They are fed up with the system, which is mostly owned by octogenarians,” he said. 

Now entering his eighth term, Biya faces a Cameroon under growing strain, from global shocks such as the wars in Ukraine and Gaza to domestic challenges including the long-running Boko Haram insurgency and deep linguistic divisions between the country’s English- and French-speaking regions.

With a 92-year-old president who frequently disappears from public view, questions are mounting over whether Biya remains fit to govern.

“Economically, the country is shrinking, there is bad governance , there is corruption, there is high level of unemployment, the cost of living is high, and we have not really capitalised on the transformation of most of our local resources,” Atabong said. 

“All of that put together, it's a cocktail that can easily degenerate.”

Ruling for more than four decades has left Cameroon deeply dependent on Biya’s grip. Still, Atabong said many citizens are bracing for the inevitable instability that will follow his eventual exit, whenever that comes.

“There is no indication that he is ready to step down because after he modified the constitution in 2008, striking off the term limit, he is still free constitutionally to go in for another mandate after this current one, which he just won,” he said.

“People just want change, even if it means moving from bad to worse.”

What now?

For now, as Biya remains out of public view, opposition figures continue to contest the results of the October 12 election.

Tchiroma had called for a three-day national lockdown, urging Cameroonians to “let the entire country come to a standstill,” to show the world that “we are resisting and that we will not yield” and to remind the Biya government that “the strength of an economy is its people.”

However, following violent clashes outside his Garoua home, Tchiroma was reportedly forced to flee with the help of “loyalist army” members, a move that, if confirmed, could signal growing cracks within Biya’s own ranks.

“The way going forward, I think it will depend on a couple of factors. First of all, it depends on within the rank of the security forces,” Atabong said. “If that doesn't happen, then I think not long from now, the riots will grow. So, it all depends on the days ahead, how it's going to play out.”

Atabong also noted the muted reaction abroad. The African Union even congratulated the longtime Cameroonian president in a statement that also expressed concern over the post-election unrest in the country.

“Since Cameroon, and largely Africa, has been a diplomatic battlefield, most of the foreign powers are very cautious on how they go about relations with the incoming government,” he said.

“Big countries like the US, maybe Russia, maybe China, they will more or less end up at lip service and be more cautious about how they comment on the developments in Cameroon because they have their interest in the country,” he added. “For now, the international community is failing Cameroon.”

With just days to go before Biya’s November 6 inauguration, unrest continues to define the political climate. What unfolds in the coming days could determine not only the next seven years of Biya’s rule, but also whether Cameroon’s fragile calm can hold at all.

A video by Viory showed a column of smoke rising over the city. The protests, led by opposition supporters, called for political reforms and transparency in the electoral process.

Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, and authorities have imposed a curfew. Internet disruptions were also reported nationwide.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, expected to secure re-election, has faced accusations of stifling dissent after key opposition candidates were disqualified. Human rights groups have condemned recent crackdowns on free speech and political activity.

This concludes our coverage of the October 29 elections in Tanzania, where incumbent leader President Samia Suluhu Hassan prepares to begin a fresh five-year term amid growing unrest and violence. Follow Global South World's official social media pages for more post-election updates from Tanzania.

Hassan declared winner by 98%

Tanzania's electoral commission declared on Saturday that President Samia Suluhu Hassan had won, with nearly 98% of the votes, an election that set off violent protests across the country this week.

The result hands Hassan, who took power in 2021 after the death in office of her predecessor, a five-year term to govern the East African country of 68 million people.

Protests erupted during Wednesday's vote for president and parliament, with some demonstrators tearing down banners of Hassan and setting fire to government buildings and police firing tear gas and gunshots, according to witnesses.

Demonstrators are angry about the electoral commission's exclusion of Hassan's two biggest challengers from the race and what they described as widespread repression.

Tanzania's main opposition party said on Friday that hundreds of people had been killed in the protests, while the U.N. human rights office said credible reports indicated at least 10 people were killed in three cities.

The government dismissed the opposition's death toll as "hugely exaggerated" and has rejected criticism of its human rights record.

Reuters could not independently verify casualty figures.

COMMISSION SAYS TURNOUT WAS 87%

The electoral commission said that Hassan received more than 31.9 million votes, or 97.66% of the total, with turnout nearing 87% of the country's 37.6 million registered voters.

Turnout appeared low on election day, according to witnesses, with some polling stations disrupted by the protests.

The Tanzanian authorities have imposed a nationwide curfew for the past three nights and restricted access to the internet.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo on Friday denied allegations that security services had used excessive force, saying there had only been a "very few small pockets of incidents" caused by criminal elements.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, called "for a thorough and impartial investigation into all allegations of excessive use of force" and deplored the loss of life.

RECENT CRITICISM FOR HASSAN

Hassan, 65, won praise after taking office in 2021 from predecessor John Magufuli for easing repression that increased under his tenure but has more recently faced criticism from opposition parties and activists after a series of arrests and alleged abductions of opponents.

She has denied allegations of widespread rights abuses. Last year, she said she had ordered an investigation into reports of abductions, but no official findings have been released.

During the campaign, she touted accomplishments expanding road and railway networks and increasing power generation capacity.

The main opposition party CHADEMA had called for protests during the election, which it said amounted to a "coronation".

CHADEMA was disqualified in April from the election after it refused to sign a code of conduct, and its leader Tundu Lissu was charged with treason.

The commission also disqualified the candidate for opposition party ACT-Wazalendo, leaving only minor parties to take on Hassan.

Violence breaks out in Tanzania's biggest city

Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam, descended into chaos on Wednesday, October 29, as protests broke out during the country’s general elections.

Demonstrators clashed with police, reportedly setting a police station ablaze and damaging public property.

A video by Viory showed a column of smoke rising over the city. The protests, led by opposition supporters, called for political reforms and transparency in the electoral process.

Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, and authorities have imposed a curfew. Internet disruptions were also reported nationwide.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, expected to secure re-election, has faced accusations of stifling dissent after key opposition candidates were disqualified. Human rights groups have condemned recent crackdowns on free speech and political activity.

Ballots destroyed and officials flee as protests escalate

Reports from local sources describe ballots being destroyed and scattered on the streets as protests intensified. Election officials allegedly abandoned polling stations amid the unrest, raising further doubts about the credibility of the electoral process and the government’s ability to maintain control.

Police stations torched in Dar es Salaam and Arusha

Protesters burned police stations in both Dar es Salaam and Arusha, and a police patrol vehicle was also set alight in Dar es Salaam. The attacks on security infrastructure signal rising anger on the streets and a growing breakdown of public order.

Defiance on the streets as protests continue despite curfew

Demonstrations persist across Tanzania even after police enforced a nationwide curfew. Crowds have defied restrictions, demanding accountability and transparency following the country’s disputed election.

Influx of wounded patients at Muhimbili Hospital

Muhimbili National Hospital is witnessing an influx of injured patients following post-election violence across the city, hospital sources told the BBC. The surge in casualties comes as protesters took to the streets demanding electoral reforms and the restoration of free political activity. Demonstrators set vehicles ablaze and damaged public infrastructure in various parts of Dar es Salaam, prompting a swift response from authorities.

Tanzania’s police chief, Camillus Wambura, imposed a citywide curfew starting from 6:00 p.m. local time (15:00 GMT), urging residents to remain indoors. No end date for the curfew has been provided.

Dar es Salaam’s Regional Commissioner, Alfred Chalamila, warned earlier that the government would take firm action against anyone disturbing public order. Protests were also reported in other parts of the country, including Mbeya and Tunduma. “We are tired,” a protester told the BBC. “We want an independent electoral commission so that every Tanzanian can choose the leader they want.”

Opposition suppression, new promises, chaos – Tanzania’s incumbent president readies for another term?

Incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), are widely expected to secure another term in office, as the country has wrapped up the nationwide vote.

But the path to re-election has been marked by the suppression of opposition voices, raising new concerns over the country’s democratic course.

Now there are widespread demonstrations across the country following the close of polls.

President Samia, who took office in 2021 following the death of former leader John Magufuli, is seeking her first full term. Since then, she has positioned herself as a reformer and bridge-builder, especially in  international  circles, but at home, her government has been criticised for systematically sidelining opposition figures and dissent. Read more .

US Embassy issues security alert over post election unrest

The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania has issued a security alert to American citizens and embassy staff following reports of demonstrations and unrest in several parts of the country after the elections.

According to the advisory, Tanzanian police have imposed a curfew in Dar es Salaam beginning at 6:00 p.m. on October 29, as security forces respond to protests in multiple locations. The embassy warned that the situation remains fluid, with reports of ongoing demonstrations and an increased security presence across major cities.

The embassy instructed U.S. government personnel to shelter in place at their residences and announced that, for October 30, operations at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam will be limited to emergency consular services only.

Social media reactions to curfew, alleged internet shutdown in Tanzania

Many Tanzanian netizens are reporting difficulties accessing platforms like X without resorting to VPNs. Digital rights commentators say these shutdowns curtail freedom of expression and limit democratic dialogue. For example, scholars warn that internet blackouts reduce the available space for political debate, activist organising, and citizen oversight. Some social media users are expressing frustration and fear - citing that restrictions may signal an attempt to limit dissent ahead of election results.

Unrest spreads across Tanzania as protests turn violent

In the hours following the vote, Tanzania has descended into turmoil.

Protesters have taken to the streets, torching buildings and destroying property in several regions, as anger over the electoral process intensifies. Police forces have been deployed nationwide, attempting to contain the chaos and restore order. But with demonstrations spreading and communication networks disrupted, the scale of unrest now threatens to overshadow the very legitimacy of Tanzania’s election.

President Samia cast her vote, urged Tanzanians to turn out peacefully

President Samia Suluhu Hassan began the day by expressing gratitude to Almighty God after joining fellow citizens of Chamwino to cast her vote. The Head of State described it as “a blessed morning,” commending the sense of unity and civic responsibility shown by voters who turned up early across the country.

President Samia encouraged all Tanzanians to continue turning out in large numbers to vote peacefully and calmly, noting that millions had already participated in an orderly manner. She emphasized that maintaining peace and stability during the election process was vital to strengthening democracy and ensuring that every citizen’s voice is heard.

Silence and tension mark Tanzania’s election day

In Tanzania, the right to vote has collided with the struggle to be heard.

As the country heads to the polls, violent clashes and an internet blackout have plunged the electoral process into uncertainty. Reports from local media describe streets under tight security, opposition leaders detained, and voters struggling to access information or communicate online. With most social networks blocked and news outlets operating under pressure, Tanzania’s election unfolds in a climate of fear and silence - one where the flow of information may prove as decisive as the vote itself.

Tanzania’s 2025 elections face a crisis of information control 

In Tanzania today, truth itself has become a battleground.

As the country approaches its general elections on October 29, 2025, it is not the ballot box but the control of information that may decide the nation’s future. Across newsrooms, churches, and social media, fear and censorship are reshaping the space for public debate and democracy.

Over recent years, the government has steadily tightened control over what citizens can read, post, or even discuss. Key online platforms once central to public conversation -Twitter (now X), Clubhouse, Telegram, and the influential Tanzanian forum JamiiForums - have been  blocked or restricted. Read more here .

Elections without opposition?

As Tanzanians prepare to vote in presidential, parliamentary, and local elections on Wednesday, October 29, much of the opposition has been pushed to the margins, with leading parties boycotting the race and several candidates disqualified or silenced.

The election is officially set to feature 17 presidential contenders, but only one, incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), enjoys national recognition and institutional backing. 

The imbalance has prompted critics to question whether the poll represents a genuine democratic contest or simply a formality to extend CCM’s near five-decade rule. More here .

Blind political loyalty 

In Tanzania, as in many African democracies, politics has become less about reform and more about political loyalty. 

Politics in Tanzania is now less about policy and more about belonging – cheering for a team instead of striving for better governance. And when loyalty overshadows ideas, meaningful change disappears.

Once political identity becomes part of who we are – “I am CCM” or “I am Chadema” –  the goal shifts. People stop comparing policies and start defending their side while attacking the other. Political scientists call this  affective polarisation :  when people become emotionally attached to one camp and hostile toward another, no matter the issues. More here .

Controversial promises ahead of the elections

As Tanzanians vote in the 2025 general election, the campaign period closed with promises made over the past two months taking centre stage – some attracting attention for their controversy. The October 29 polls will elect the president, members of the National Assembly, and ward councillors. Campaigning officially began on 28 August and has been marked less by policy debate than by a series of unconventional pledges that have sparked both amusement and debate. While some of these promises appear light-hearted, analysts  suggest  their prominence reflects the limited participation of major opposition figures in this year’s race. Read more here .

Tanzania heads to the polls today in a high-stakes vote that could cement the ruling CCM party’s seven-decade grip on power.

With opposition candidates sidelined by arrests and intimidation, President Samia Suluhu Hassan appears poised to secure another term amid calls for fair competition and political reform.

Meet the candidates for next Tanzanian president

Over 37 million Tanzanian voters head to the polls today to select their new leader under a tense political climate marked by limited media access and growing state control.

Who among them will prevail?

Polls opened at 4 am GMT and closed at 1 pm GMT — vote counting is underway, and results will be made public within three days, according to the election commission.

BACKGROUND

Post-election protests turn violent

Violent protests broke out in Tanzania's biggest city, Dar es Salaam, on Wednesday during an election, President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to win following the disqualification of the leading opposition candidates.

Internet service was disrupted across the country, monitor group NetBlocks said, as unverified videos of young protesters throwing rocks at security forces and a petrol station in flames circulated on social media.

Hundreds of protesters were marching towards the Selander Bridge that leads to Dar es Salaam's centre, said a witness who asked not to be named.

Witnesses reported violent protests in at least four neighbourhoods of Dar es Salaam, while video from BBC Swahili showed police using tear gas to disperse protesters in another part of the city.

Who’s in

The incumbent president and the first woman to lead Tanzania, Suluhu Hassan has years of experience in government and initially projected herself as a moderate reformer. Running with Emmanuel Nchimbi as her vice-presidential candidate, she remains the dominant political figure in the race. Her strongest potential challengers, particularly from the Chadema opposition party, have been weakened by systematic state pressure. Opposition leaders have faced legal restrictions, arrests, and in some cases, violent intimidation. This has left Tanzania’s political opposition fragmented and largely unable to mount an effective national campaign.

Masoud, the former First Vice President of Zanzibar, has emerged as the main opposition figure in the campaign. Known for his legal background and measured political style, he has positioned himself as a reformist voice advocating for stronger governance , youth empowerment, and greater autonomy for Zanzibar within the union.

Although the National Electoral Commission reportedly barred his candidacy earlier this year, ACT Wazalendo continued to campaign with him as its symbolic presidential representative, drawing significant crowds, particularly in Zanzibar. His prominence underscores the frustration among opposition supporters over shrinking political space.

Kadege’s campaign centres on youth employment and vocational training, aiming to expand opportunities for young Tanzanians.

Mulumbe advocates for the use of satellite technology to boost sectors like agriculture, mining , and justice, and supports introducing dual citizenship to strengthen economic ties.

Mwiru focuses on agricultural reform, proposing zonal markets, fixed crop and livestock prices, and 24-hour access to essential public services.

Who’s out

Much of the opposition in Tanzania has been pushed to the margins in the presidential, parliamentary and local elections, with leading parties boycotting the race and several candidates disqualified or silenced.

The election is officially set to feature 17 presidential contenders, but only one, incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), enjoys national recognition and institutional backing.

The imbalance has prompted critics to question whether the poll represents a genuine democratic contest or simply a formality to extend CCM’s near five-decade rule.

Tanzania’s two largest opposition parties, CHADEMA and ACT-Wazalendo, are not taking part after accusing the government of orchestrating a systematic crackdown on dissent. Several of their key leaders have been barred from running, while others face ongoing court cases or arbitrary detention.

In April, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) disqualified CHADEMA’s presidential candidate on what the party described as “manufactured technicalities.” International news agency Reuters later confirmed that other opposition figures were similarly struck off ballots at local and parliamentary levels.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have reported a “climate of fear”, citing arbitrary arrests, media restrictions, and enforced disappearances in the lead-up to the vote.

“Authorities have intensified repression ahead of the elections, instilling fear among activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens,” Amnesty said in an October report.

When Samia Suluhu Hassan took office in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli, she was initially praised for loosening restrictions on the opposition and reopening civic space. But over time, that image has faded.

Opposition activists say the state has perfected a softer, procedural form of authoritarianism — one that relies less on overt violence and more on bureaucratic obstacles, judicial harassment, and control of the media landscape.

What’s at stake

Beyond the political contest, Tanzanians continue to grapple with everyday struggles; unreliable electricity, water shortages, unemployment, and poor healthcare.

Still, many voters feel there is little space for genuine alternatives, with the ruling party dominating the political narrative and state machinery.

Dearth of information

There are 17 candidates, but reliable information about most of them remains scarce. The campaign has been dominated by the ruling party’s candidate, while smaller contenders have struggled to gain visibility in a political environment marked by limited media access and growing state control.

The political climate is tense, with reports of repression, arrests, and intimidation targeting opposition figures. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office in 2021 after the death of John Magufuli, entered power promising reform and reconciliation. However, critics argue that her government has since tightened its grip on the political system, leaving little room for genuine competition.

While smaller candidates remain part of the electoral process, there is very little publicly available information about most of them, and their campaigns receive limited coverage, giving them minimal capacity to challenge CCM’s entrenched dominance. Their participation, however, serves as a reminder of Tanzania’s multi-party structure, one that exists more in form than in genuine political balance.

“To this effect, the Chairperson extends congratulations to His Excellency Paul BIYA on his victory, as the re-elected President of the Republic of Cameroon,” the African Union said in a letter disseminated online. 

Mahmoud’s brief salutation to Biya was followed by an extended expression of concern over multiple reported incidents of post-electoral violence in Cameroon. 

Since October 12, reports have swirled online about violence and repression targeting Biya dissidents. Four protesters were killed in a protest in Cameroon's commercial capital, Douala, a day before the proclamation.

On the day the Constitutional Court announced the winner, candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who placed second in the polls, wrote on social media that civilians were being shot at outside his residence. 

Security around Tchiroma’s residence has since been fortified, photos from Reuters show. 

“The Chairperson is gravely concerned about the reported violence, repression and arrests of protesters and political actors in connection with the election results,” the African Union statement read. 

“The AUC Chairperson of calls on all institutional and political actors to exercise restraint and work towards the preservation of social cohesion, peace and stability in Cameroon,” it continued. 

In his first and only public statement so far since reelection, Biya condoled with those “who have unnecessarily lost their lives [as] a result of post-election violence.” 

Biya will be inaugurated on November 6 in Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon. 

Candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who placed second with 35.2% of the vote, claimed civilians outside his Garoua home were being shot at hours before the proclamation, triggering widespread concern.

“Urgent: Currently at my home in Garoua, they are shooting at civilians who are camping in front of my house,” Tchiroma wrote on Facebook on Monday. “The assault is on.” 

Reports from the ground relayed to Global South World indicate growing fear among Cameroonians.

While allegations of vote rigging are not new in the country — nearly every election has been accused of favouring Biya — sources say his government is now responding to these claims not with restraint, but with force.

Biya’s victory was confirmed after Cameroon’s Constitutional Council dismissed all eight petitions alleging electoral irregularities, any of which could have led to the partial or total cancellation of the polls .

Opposition groups, including Tchiroma, have rejected the results. The former Biya ally claimed on social media that he was the real winner and accused the council of being “complicit in a breach of trust.”

Biya, meanwhile, sought to present himself as a magnanimous victor and unifying leader, acknowledging the “weight of the responsibility” and the “great expectations” of his “compatriots.”

“At this point in time when the sovereign people have once again placed their trust in me for a new term of office, my first thoughts are with all those who have unnecessarily lost their lives, as well with their families, as a result of the post-election violence.”

Official results announced on Monday showed Biya winning 53.7% of the vote, compared with 35.2% for his main challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary. Opposition groups, however, had rejected the outcome, alleging widespread fraud and irregularities that they said heavily favoured the incumbent.

Tensions flared in the days following the October 12 poll. Bakary, a former ally turned rival, appeared on video claiming victory, while his Union for Change coalition released a statement declaring him the “ People ’s Consensus Candidate” and asserting that results from polling stations showed he had won between 60% and 80% of the vote.

Protests erupted as the official proclamation loomed, leading to violent clashes in Douala that left at least four people dead. Bakary later called for calm and urged supporters to respect the results of the vote, even as opposition leaders vowed to challenge the outcome.

Cameroon’s elections have long been shadowed by allegations of manipulation and repression. 

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems describes the country as an “electoral autocracy” — one that holds regular polls but consistently fails to meet basic democratic standards.

“People don't trust the process,” said Tony Vinyoh, a Cameroonian journalist, in an interview with Global South World in September. “I’ve talked to some parents, and they don't even want to register their kids.”

Biya is only Cameroon’s second president, succeeding Ahmadou Ahidjo, who led from independence in 1960 until his resignation in 1982. Ahidjo’s decision to appoint Biya as his successor backfired when the new leader later had him tried and sentenced to death — a penalty later commuted to life imprisonment.

Cameroon has never held a presidential election without Biya on the ballot. He ran unopposed in 1984 when the country was still a one-party state, and narrowly won in 1992, the first multiparty election. His vote share has not fallen below 70% until this year.

Biya did not appear during the proclamation, fuelling speculation about his health and ability to govern. 

In 2024, the ageing president vanished from public view for 42 days, reigniting debate over whether he remains fit to lead a nation still battling insurgency and lagging behind many of its African neighbours in development.

This concludes our live coverage of the October 25 Côte d’Ivoire elections. Vote counting is currently in progress. Follow Global South World for further updates as we await the official results from the Independent Electoral Commission.

18:05 GMT: Polls close in Côte d'Ivoire presidential election, with Ouattara eyeing a fourth term amid global scrutiny.

17:14 GMT: Polls are expected to close at 18:00 GMT

16:40 GMT: Ballot boxes have been destroyed and electoral materials vandalized in several polling stations in the sub-prefecture of Zaguiéta, particularly in Biegon, Dianoufla, Tofla, Bounantinfla, and Banonfla.

15:42 GMT: The CEI provisionally bans polling stations from the media

15:36 GMT: Presidential Candidate and sitting president Alassane Ouattara addresses the media after casting his vote

15:30 GMT: Electoral Observers monitor the voting process across several polling stations.

14:03 GMT: Presidential candidates Jean-Louis Billon and Henriette Lagou cast their votes. 60-year-old Louis Billon served as minister under President Ouattara’s first two terms. First as Minister of Trade, Crafts and SME between 2012 and 2016 and then as Minister of Commerce from 2016 to 2017. Alongside Jacqueline-Claire Kouangoua, Lagou, 66, a well-known advocate for women's rights and a former minister under former President Gbagbo, was one of the first two women to run for president of Côte d'Ivoire in the 2015 presidential election.

13:40 GMT : At a polling station of the Lycee Saint-Marie de Cocody in Abidjan, presidential candidate Ahoua Don Mello casts his ballot

13:27 GMT: The entire country is set up to enable "voters to exercise their right to vote in complete safety," says Ivorian Minister of the Interior, Vagondo Diomande

12:40 GMT : Members of the Ivorian diaspora gathered at polling stations in Paris to vote. Footage captured officials from the Independent Electoral Commission assisting voters amid large crowds both inside and outside the venue. One voter described participating as a civic duty.

12:15 GMT :  83-year-old President Ouattara, seeking a fourth consecutive term, votes alongside his wife Dominique Ouattara at a polling station at the Lycee Saint-Marie de Cocody in Abidjan

12:07 GMT: Simone Gbagbo, candidate of the Movement of Skilled Generations and wife of former President Laurent Gbagbo, casts her vote at a polling station inside a school in Abidjan

12:00 GMT : 5 hours since polls were officially opened, although voting at most centres commenced later than the stipulated time, polls are expected to officially be closed by 18:00 GMT , according to the CEI.

11:52 GMT : Ivorian women's rights advocate Laetitia Carelle Goli urges the new administration to put women's rights first, create a framework to stop femicide, and open up public space

10:43 GMT: Will Ivorians choose continuity or change at the polls today?

10:05 GMT: 3 hours after polls opened, voting continues smoothly with no reports of violence or electoral malpractice. The first voters have already cast their ballots.

9:26 GMT: Polls open in neighbouring West African countries as Ivorian expats vote at foreign embassies

8:58 GMT: Representatives of the African Union and ECOWAS visit first polling station

8:15 GMT: The ghost of 2020: Will Ivory Coast avoid another election crisis?

Many Ivorians are haunted by memories of 2020, a year that reignited violent divisions, cost dozens of lives, and cast a long shadow over the country’s democratic future. Today, the same patterns are emerging again: disputed candidacies, allegations of a corrupted voter list, arrests of protestors and journalists, and a president pushing past term limits.

“People are supposed to be in the streets for three or four days until the guy changes position...But some people are afraid,” an Ivorian journalist told Global South World .

7:44 GMT: Ivorians in France queue in their numbers at the Embassy to cast their votes

7:11 GMT: Over 66 African Union observers have been deployed to witness the election

7:00 GMT: Polls open across various polling centres nationwide as voters line up to cast their ballots

00:22 GMT: Electoral materials at one of the polling station storage facilities a few hours prior to the opening of polling stations on election day

22:44 GMT October 24: A computer programmer responsible for managing the server for publishing Côte d'Ivoire’s presidential election results on Abidjan.net was urgently summoned by the Presidency’s communication unit after an error revealed details of a prearranged plan allegedly linked to President Alassane Dramane Ouattara. The mistake occurred when the programmer entered Friday, October 24, 2025, instead of Saturday, October 25, 2025, the official election date. Following the incident, Ouattara reportedly contacted the president of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) for clarification regarding the error.

19:42 GMT October 24: On the eve of the presidential election, the president of Côte d’Ivoire’s Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), Coulibaly-Kuibiert Ibrahime, addressed the nation, urging citizens to exercise their civic duty with calm, discipline, and confidence

17:55 GMT October 24: Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice-President of Nigeria and Head of the Joint ECOWAS-African Union Election Observation Mission (EOM), meets with President Ouattara.

Prof. Osinbajo also held a series of meetings from 21 to 23 October in Abidjan with key electoral stakeholders, including Ivorian officials, political party representatives, African ambassadors, and ECOWAS observers. He met with members of the Independent Electoral Commission, the Constitutional Council, and other national institutions to assess the electoral process and security preparations.

Polls are expected to open at 07:00 GMT and close at 18:00 GMT across all polling stations.

What you need to know

The vote comes at a time when the country is balancing rapid economic growth with persistent political divisions, and the outcome could redefine both its democratic trajectory and its regional role.

At the centre of this year’s race is President Alassane Ouattara, who has led the country since 2011. His  decision  to seek a fourth term has reignited debate over constitutional limits and political succession. Supporters argue that his leadership has brought stability and economic progress, while critics say his continued presence risks undermining democratic norms in a country still haunted by memories of the 2010–2011 post-electoral crisis, which left thousands dead.

Electoral system and voter roll

Under Côte d’Ivoire’s two-round electoral system, a candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to win outright. If no one achieves that threshold, the top two contenders advance to a runoff.

Over 20,000 polling stations are expected nationwide; however, questions remain about voter registration accuracy and access for displaced or rural populations.

When will the results be announced?

The Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) is managing the process and is expected to release provisional results within five days, after which the Constitutional Council will certify the final outcome.

Who’s on the ballot — and who isn’t

The final candidate list has been sharply reduced after the electoral court validated just five contenders out of roughly sixty submissions. Among those cleared to run are Simone Ehivet Gbagbo, the former first lady, and several lesser-known opposition figures.

However, two of the most prominent figures,  Laurent Gbagbo , the former president, and  Tidjane Thiam,  ex-Credit Suisse CEO, have been barred from contesting. Authorities cited legal and nationality issues, but the disqualifications have deepened claims that the political space is being narrowed. Both men command significant popular support, and their exclusion could shape voter turnout and legitimacy perceptions.

High stakes for democracy

For many Ivorians, this election is not only about leadership but also about trust in the democratic process. The  2020 vote  was marred by boycotts and sporadic violence, and observers fear similar tensions if opposition candidates or their supporters feel sidelined. With the memory of past unrest still vivid, maintaining peace will be a critical challenge for the government and security forces.

Economic backdrop

Côte d’Ivoire’s election also matters beyond its borders. The country is a major economic hub and the  world’s top cocoa producer,  serving as a bellwether for West Africa’s political and economic health. A credible and peaceful election would reinforce investor confidence and regional stability. Conversely, a disputed process could add to the wave of uncertainty already rippling across the sub-region, where coups and contested polls have become more common.

While the government touts strong GDP growth and major infrastructure projects, many Ivorians remain frustrated by rising living costs and persistent unemployment, particularly among youth. Rural voters, especially in cocoa-producing areas, have voiced concerns about uneven development and limited access to basic services. For them, the election represents a chance to push for policies that feel more inclusive and grounded in daily realities.

These socioeconomic issues could ultimately drive voter sentiment more than partisan loyalty. Whoever wins will inherit the task of balancing investment-driven growth with equitable development, in a country where prosperity and inequality often coexist uneasily.

Ivorians are hoping this election can consolidate two decades of hard-won peace and stability.

Tanzania is seeking to diversify its tourism markets by attracting more visitors from the Asia-Pacific region after welcoming a record 2.14 million tourists in 2024, up from 1.81 million the previous year. Visitor spending reached US$3.9 billion, a 15.7% year-on-year increase, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Traditionally reliant on European and North American visitors, Tanzania is now focusing on Australia, China, Singapore, and Malaysia following successful promotional campaigns, including the 2024 China-Tanzania Culture and Tourism Year.  Arusha-based tour operators say Asia-Pacific travellers are showing growing interest in safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro treks, and beach holidays. “Asia-Pacific is a relatively new market for us, but we are keen to engage,” said Zephania Abduel, of Tanzania Roadside Expeditions.

Amnesty warns of growing repression ahead of general elections

Amnesty International has accused Tanzanian authorities of intensifying repression against opposition leaders, journalists, and civil society ahead of the October 29 general elections. The organisation’s report cites “arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances”, with 83 individuals reportedly missing as of August 2024, according to the Tanganyika Law Society.  Regional director Tigere Chagutah said President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government had “dashed hopes for reform” and instead deepened authoritarian practices. Political dissidents told Human Rights Watch they faced constant harassment, while Amnesty called on the government to end its “unacceptable campaign of repression against dissent.”

Tanzania achieves new digital milestone with 56.3 million internet users

Tanzania has recorded 56.3 million active internet subscriptions as of September 2025, according to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). This marks rapid growth from 52.9 million three months earlier, pushing internet penetration to 87% of the population.  The surge is attributed to expanded 4G and 5G mobile broadband coverage, affordable data packages, and smartphone adoption. Mobile internet accounts for over 99% of usage, underscoring its role in Tanzania’s digital transformation. The TCRA report links this progress to the government’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030), which promotes e-government, online learning, and financial inclusion. Tanzania now ranks among East Africa’s leading digital economies.

Catholic church calls for justice amid disappearances and election anxiety

During Holy Mass on Nyerere Day on October 14, Archbishop Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ichi urged the government to address the ongoing abductions and disappearances plaguing the country. Speaking ahead of the general elections, the Archbishop emphasised that “every life is sacred” and called on authorities to uphold citizens’ rights and ensure accountability. He also appealed to Tanzanians to vote conscientiously and resist coercion or bribery, reminding them that “the government’s authority is derived from the people and accountable to them.” The Justice and Peace Commission of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference will monitor the upcoming elections.

Tanzania’s largest bank eyes regional expansion 

Tanzania’s largest bank, CRDB, is expanding its regional footprint after establishing subsidiaries in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Chair Neema Munisi Mori told Semafor that the bank is now eyeing markets in Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia, as well as partnerships in the Middle East and China.  With assets valued at $6.5 billion at the end of 2024, CRDB has opened a representative office in Dubai and created a China desk to attract cross-border investment. The bank aims to position itself as a regional financial powerhouse by leveraging partnerships similar to its collaboration with Norway’s sovereign fund in DR Congo.

Simone Gbagbo: From first lady to opposition leader

Among Ouattara’s challengers is Simone Gbagbo, 76, a veteran political figure and former first lady. Once a close ally of her ex-husband and former president Laurent Gbagbo, she was arrested alongside him in 2011 after post-election violence that left around 3,000 people dead.

Convicted of crimes against the state and sentenced to 20 years in prison, she was granted amnesty in 2018. Now leading the Movement of Skilled Generations party, founded in 2022, Gbagbo has positioned herself as a voice for social justice . At her campaign launch early in October, she acknowledged Ouattara’s infrastructure gains but said Ivorians were demanding better health care and jobs.

Jean-Louis Billon: The Business-focused reformist

Businessman and former trade minister Jean-Louis Billon, 60, is contesting the election under the Democratic Congress, a coalition of 18 parties and movements. Billon had initially sought to represent the main opposition Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) but was sidelined after the party’s leader, Tidjane Thiam, was disqualified over dual nationality issues.

Billon has promised to modernize the public sector, curb corruption, and attract more private investment. He has also pledged to move some government offices to the political capital, Yamoussoukro, and to amend laws that restrict dual citizenship. “It’s time for Ouattara and his generation to leave the scene,” Billon said in a recent interview with Reuters.

Ahoua Don Mello: The independent nationalist

Ahoua Don Mello, 67, a former spokesperson for Laurent Gbagbo during the 2010–11 crisis, is running as an independent after being expelled from Gbagbo’s African People’s Party (PPA-CI) for defying its election boycott. He argues that participating in the vote is essential to avoid a repeat of 2020, when the opposition’s boycott handed Ouattara a landslide victory. Don Mello has called for Ivory Coast to abandon the CFA franc currency and revise its defence agreements with France . While critics accuse him of pushing a pro-Russian agenda, he recently told France 24 that he was not “Vladimir Putin’s man.”

Henriette Lagou Adjoua: The centrist advocate for women

Henriette Lagou Adjoua, 66, a former minister for social affairs and women’s affairs, is also joining the race. Representing the Group of Political Partners for Peace, a centrist coalition, she is campaigning on a platform of reconciliation and gender inclusion.

Adjoua, who also ran unsuccessfully in 2015, has urged Ivorians to heal the “wounds of the past” and push for greater female representation in politics. Her recent book, Why Not a Woman? , advocates for a more inclusive political landscape.

As Ouattara seeks to extend his long rule, the October 25 election will test Ivorians’ appetite for continuity versus change, and whether the country’s fractured opposition can mount a credible challenge.