Tanzania's opposition is seeking constitutional reforms and more independence for the electoral commission ahead of next year's general election.
Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) party leaders on Wednesday insisted that far-reaching reforms must be undertaken before the country goes to polls.
Led by Chadema party leader Tundu Lissu, the opposition called on President Suluhu Hassan to allow both constitutional and electoral reforms.
"We need an independent electoral commission and a new constitution in our country," he said.
Speaking during the Wednesday protest in Dar es Salam, Lissu said that they have been pushing for constitutional reforms for many years which has never been considered by the Chama Cha Mapinduzi Party (CCM).
"After 33 years, CCM still thinks that we don’t need to change the constitution and electoral commission," he said.
CHADEMA leader Freeman Mbowe on Wednesday said that they were on a journey to ensure that their concerns have been considered.
"Today, Tanzanians have embarked on a collective journey, taking to the streets in peaceful demonstrations that resonate with the issues of our shared concerns and aspirations," he tweeted.
"As a nation, we are coming together against the tide of inflation, unemployment, corruption, and the pressing need for a new and new constitution that genuinely represents the evolving needs of our people."
President Samia Suluhu Hassan currently lifted the longstanding ban on political rallies, which the opposition has been demanding.
They were seeking a level playing field ahead of civic elections next year and the 2025 general election.
Speaking at a meeting with political party leaders in Dar es Salaam, the President directed the police and other security forces to allow parties to hold rallies without undue hassle.
Tanzania is expected to hold its first presidential election in 2025 since the death of President John Magufuli in March 2021 which led to his deputy, Samia Suluhu becoming the President of Tanzania.
