As Tanzania heads to the polls, tensions have escalated significantly with widespread protests erupting in the capital, Dar es Salaam, amidst allegations of voter suppression and repression of opposition leaders. The ruling party, seeking to maintain decades of power, is facing accusations of eroding democratic practices and utilizing tactics such as military deployment and internet disruption to control the narrative. Key opponents are barred from participating in the elections, leading to concerns over the legitimacy of the electoral process. Despite these challenges, President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to retain her position unopposed, raising questions about the future of democracy and human rights in the country.