Here is a rundown of elections that made a difference in 2025:

Sri Lanka

One of the most consequential elections was Sri Lanka ’s parliamentary transition in early 2025, which followed the 2024 presidential election won by Anura Kumara Dissanayake after the country’s worst economic crisis since independence. Voters decisively rejected the long-dominant Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe political establishments, widely blamed for the 2022 debt default, instead backing parties and candidates associated with fiscal discipline, anti-corruption reforms, and continued engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recovery programme.

Crucially, the mass youth-led protest movement known as the “Aragalaya,” which had forced former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee in 2022, evolved into sustained electoral pressure in 2025.

Cameroon

In the October 12, 2025, presidential election, Cameroon’ s long-serving President Paul Biya, aged 92, was declared the winner with approximately 53.7% of the vote, extending his rule that began in 1982 into an unprecedented eighth term. The result sparked widespread protests in major cities such as Douala and Yaoundé, with opposition supporters rejecting the official outcome and accusing the government of electoral fraud and repression. The election and its aftermath underscored deep social tensions between entrenched political authority and a growing demand for democratic accountability among citizens and civil society groups.

Tanzania

Tanzania’s 29 October 2025 general election faced criticism over the exclusion of major opposition candidates and claims of suppressed dissent, fuelling public dissatisfaction with the electoral process and governance. Following the government’s declared victory, protests erupted in major cities, driven largely by young people contesting the outcome and broader political restrictions. Opposition groups and civil society alleged that thousands were killed during the unrest, with some estimates as high as 10,000. These claims have not been independently verified and were dismissed by the government as exaggerated. Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba’s administration described the figures as misinformation and announced investigations into the protests and any confirmed deaths. A presidential commission was subsequently established, though no official death toll has been released.

Chile

In the December 2025 presidential election in Chile , José Antonio Kast of the conservative Christian Social Front was elected president, defeating left-of-centre candidate Gabriel Boric and signalling a sharp political shift after years of social unrest and economic uncertainty. Kast’s victory reflected widespread voter concern over crime, public security, and economic challenges, with his campaign promising tougher law-and-order policies and market-oriented fiscal reforms. The result marked a substantive rightward turn in Chilean politics, underscoring a broader social realignment in Latin America as citizens adjusted priorities away from progressive agendas toward stability, security, and economic pragmatism in the aftermath of mass protests and constitutional debates.

Bolivia

In the 2025 Bolivian presidential runoff, Rodrigo Paz —a centrist and former mayor of La Paz— defeated his main rival to secure the presidency with a clear lead in the early official count, ending nearly two decades of dominance by the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party. Paz’s campaign focused on economic stability, reducing political polarisation, combating corruption, and restoring investor confidence after years of tension between MAS supporters and opposition groups, appealing to voters across the political spectrum. The election marked a significant social and political shift in Bolivia, reflecting widespread public desire for consensus leadership and pragmatic governance following periods of protests, contested elections, and economic uncertainty under previous administrations.

Poverty remains one of the country’s most severe challenges. Large segments of the population continue to depend on informal or unstable work, and many families struggle to cover basic needs. This economic strain fuels broader disillusionment: as living costs rise and social support systems remain weak, confidence in the country’s leadership erodes further. For many households, the election arrives at a time of acute financial uncertainty.

Violence adds another layer of pressure. Honduras is among the region’s most affected countries when it comes to crime, gang activity and organised criminal networks. Extortion, territorial control and forced displacement have become common in many communities, compounding fear and insecurity. Reports of political violence have also increased, contributing to an atmosphere of unease as campaigning intensifies. In this environment, trust in state institutions, particularly security and justice systems, remains low.

Corruption is a central concern for voters and a recurring theme in national debates. Years of scandals, political disputes and public accusations have weakened confidence in the political class. The current electoral season has exposed deep divisions between parties, raising fears that the country could once again face instability or contested results. This uncertainty is heightened by widespread dissatisfaction with the government's ability to address long-standing issues such as unemployment, social inequality and the influence of criminal groups.

As Hondurans prepare to cast their ballots, many see the election as a test of the country’s democratic resilience. Beyond choosing new leaders, citizens are hoping for meaningful responses to structural problems that have shaped daily life for decades. Whether the next government can deliver reforms, restore trust and address the root causes of the crisis will determine whether Honduras moves towards greater stability or remains caught in a cycle of political and social turbulence.

The remarks followed Trump’s announcement that he intends to grant a full pardon to former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, who is currently serving a 45-year sentence in the United States for drug-trafficking and weapons-related offences. Trump also used his social media platform to endorse Hernández’s National Party ally, Nasry “Tito” Asfura, ahead of Sunday’s vote. The vice foreign minister stressed that a pardon would not alter Hernández’s record, insisting that the convictions remain a matter of public record.

Torres Zelaya denounced what he sees as contradictions in Trump’s position, citing past US-led anti-drug operations in the region. “Another thing that we find interesting to mention is that it carries a great load of irony and even contradiction that President Trump raises the banner of the fight against drug trafficking to generate actions against other countries, and in the case of Honduras, he is asking for the vote for the main drug lord of Central America , Mr Juan Orlando Hernandez,” he said.

He also argued that Trump’s endorsement of Asfura sends a clear political message. “It is no longer us saying it, Trump already said it: voting for Nasry Asfura is voting for Juan Orlando Hernandez. Voting for the National Party is voting for the narco-state to return and for the cartel to govern Honduras again,” he warned. Honduras is set to elect a president, members of the National Congress, representatives to the Central American Parliament, and local authorities, with more than six million citizens eligible to vote.

This concludes our live coverage of Guinea-Bissau's 2025 general elections. With fierce competition between the candidates, counting is underway to determine the country's next president. Polling stations opened at 0700 GMT and are expected to close at 1700 GMT. Provisional results are expected within 48 hours. Follow Global South World for continued updates about Guinea-Bissau post-election.

18:15 GMT: Polling stations end voting processes, counting begins

After 10 hours of voting, Guinea-Bissau has officially closed its polls, and counting is currently underway.

16:32 GMT: Mozambique's Philip Nyusi and Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan oversee elections

As part of a measure of transparency, the African Union sent its Chief of the Mission of Election Observers, Mozambique's former President, Filipe Nyusi, along with the former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, to monitor the ongoing elections.

Filipe's inclusion, however, is being questioned due to the belief that he ruled as Mozambique's president through fraudulent electoral means.

12:40 GMT: “Bissau-Guineans want only solutions and not slogans”

Journalist Samba M. Baldé, explains in an interview with Global South World, that, despite the many campaign messages spread by the various candidates, the citizens need practical solutions to their problems.

11:51 GMT: Voting continues in Guinea-Bissau

10:34 GMT: Incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo votes

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo cast his vote this morning at a polling station in Umaro Djabula in Gabu. The president is seeking to make history as the only president to be given a second term in 3 decades.

9:47 GMT: People queue to vote in Mansôa

Bissau-Guineans in Mansôa are taking turns in casting their votes. Fernando Dias is expected to vote in this town. Citizens, however, remain committed to their desire to have a different economic climate and hope the results reflect that.

What you need to know

Candidates

Embalo is competing against 11 other candidates, including Fernando Dias, a relatively new figure in politics.

Right at his heels is 47-year-old Fernando Dias , backed by a powerful figure from the disqualified opposition leader, Domingos Simões Pereira, of PAIGC. This party led the country to independence in 1973.

Other contenders on the ballot include José Mário Vaz, who served as president from 2014 to 2020 and became the first post-independence leader to finish a full term. Baciro Dja, 52, a former defence minister who briefly occupied the prime minister’s office twice under President Vaz, first in 2015 and again in 2016.

Also in the race is 48-year-old Joao Bernardo Vieira, the namesake and nephew of Guinea-Bissau’s longest-serving president, who held power for most of the years between 1980 and 1999 and returned to office from 2005 to 2009.

The polls are expected to open at 7:00 am GMT and close at 5:00 pm GMT.

What citizens expect

During a conversation with Global South World's Abigail Johnson Boakye, a Bissau-Guinean journalist, Samba M. Baldé, shared that despite the hype around the upcoming elections, electorates seem to be less engaged as they are tired of slogans or 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 to voters 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.

Chile is a presidential democracy. Every four years, citizens elect a president and members of Congress, the full Chamber of Deputies and half of the Senate. The president governs for a single four-year term and cannot run for immediate re-election, which is why Gabriel Boric, elected in 2021, will not appear on the ballot this time.

Elections take place in two rounds: if no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, the top two contenders face each other in a runoff. Since 2022, voting has been compulsory, turning participation into both a right and a civic duty. Congress, elected through a proportional system, holds significant power, shaping laws, negotiating coalitions, and often determining how much a president can actually achieve.

This balance of power defines Chile’s democracy: stable, institutional, and built on negotiation. The system has helped preserve democratic norms and prevent political dominance, though it can also slow major reforms — a challenge that has become evident since the 2019 protests and the unsuccessful attempt to draft a new constitution.

As Chile heads to the polls, key issues such as security , the cost of living, and trust in institutions shape the national debate. Voters will not only choose a new president but also signal the priorities and expectations for the next stage of Chile’s democratic path.

José Antonio Kast

Representing the Republican Party , Kast has focused on economic growth and security . He proposes strengthening Chile’s agricultural sector by improving irrigation infrastructure and modernising production technologies. Kast also emphasises public security, advocating for tougher measures against organised crime and reforms to enhance the efficiency of law enforcement.

Jeannette Jara

Representing Unidad por Chile , she prioritises sustainable development and social equity. Her platform includes promoting technologically advanced rural economies, supporting cooperatives, and ensuring that at least 40% of agro-industrial exports are certified for sustainability by 2028. Jara also highlights gender equality, access to quality healthcare, and investment in renewable energy as central goals.

Eduardo Artés

From PC Acción Proletaria , Eduardo Artés advocates for a more state-centric approach. He calls for increased state participation in agriculture and maritime production, transfer of large private landholdings to public ownership, and strong protections for small and medium farmers. Artés advocates for food sovereignty and aims to prohibit the use of harmful agrochemicals unless absolutely necessary.

Harold Mayne-Nicholls

Independent candidate, Harold Mayne-Nicholls, focuses on infrastructure, transparency, and decentralisation. He proposes improved regional development through investments in local infrastructure and education, alongside policies to increase citizen participation in governance and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Evelyn Matthei

Representing Chile Grande y Unido , she prioritises economic stability and pension reform. Her proposals include measures to attract foreign investment, create jobs, and enhance Chile’s social security system. Matthei also emphasises improvements in public healthcare and education while supporting fiscal responsibility.

Johannes Kaiser

Representing the Libertarian National Party , advocates for free-market policies. He plans to reduce government intervention in the economy, promote private sector-led job creation, and implement tax reforms designed to incentivise entrepreneurship. Kaiser also calls for individual liberties to be protected and for the judicial system to be strengthened.

Franco Parisi

Representing Partido de la Gente , he focuses on economic innovation and digital transformation. His agenda includes modernising public administration through technology, supporting small and medium enterprises, and enhancing the country’s competitiveness in international markets. Parisi also stresses the need for education reform and more efficient public services.

Marco Enríquez-Ominami

Representing the Progressive Party , he champions social inclusion and environmental sustainability. He proposes expanding renewable energy projects, supporting indigenous communities, and implementing social programmes to reduce poverty. Enríquez-Ominami also advocates for electoral reform and stronger protections for workers’ rights.

As Chileans prepare to cast their votes, these eight candidates offer a wide spectrum of policy approaches, reflecting the nation’s complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. The electorate faces a pivotal decision that will shape Chile’s trajectory for years to come.

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.

The main opposition party, CHADEMA, has seen its most prominent leaders, including Tundu Lissu, being disqualified or detained in the run-up to the polls. The party’s vice chairperson, Tanzania Halima Mdee, has also faced legal pressure, while opposition rallies and media coverage have reportedly been restricted. These moves have left voters with limited choice and undermined the credibility of the democratic process.

United Nations Human Rights experts have expressed concern over “enforced disappearances, harassment of critics, and shrinking civic space,” warning that the political environment is becoming increasingly intolerant of dissent. In this context, the CCM’s overwhelming dominance - having been in power since independence in 1961 – appears set to continue largely unchallenged.

Despite these concerns, Samia has made new promises to address economic challenges, including youth unemployment, infrastructure development, and regional trade integration. Her administration has also pushed for reforms to attract foreign investment, framing the election as a mandate for stability and growth.

Meanwhile, as polls have closed, several hundred youth have begun demonstrations across the country, decrying the alleged lack of transparency in the voting process, internet shutdown across the country, among others.

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.

Samia Suluhu Hassan (Chama Cha Mapinduzi - CCM) – 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.

Other candidates represent smaller, lesser-known parties with limited influence on the national stage.

Othman Masoud Othman (Alliance for Change and Transparency – ACT Wazalendo): 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 .

Twailib Ibrahim Kadege (United People's Democratic Party – UPDP): Kadege’s campaign centres on youth employment and vocational training, aiming to expand opportunities for young Tanzanians.

Wilson Elias Mulumbe (Alliance for Democratic Change – ADC): 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.

Kunje Ngombale Mwiru (Alliance for Africa Farmers Party – AAFP): Mwiru focuses on agricultural reform, proposing zonal markets, fixed crop and livestock prices, and 24-hour access to essential public services.

While these 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.

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.

Opposition sidelined

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.

Economic background

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.

What’s next

Election observers from the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union have deployed missions across the country, but analysts remain skeptical about whether their presence will ensure transparency.