What civic elections mean for Tanzania parties

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan queues to cast her vote at Sokoine, Chamwino district in Dodoma during the municipal polls on November 27, 2024.

Photo credit: Ikulu

Tanzanians headed to local government elections on Wednesday with varied interests in a contest that could shape next year’s general election.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan voted early on Wednesday and her Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) is banking on these elections to cement its grassroots networks -- crucial for campaigning for next year, when she defends her incumbency.