In Manyara, Tanzania, the High Court granted an interim injunction to CHADEMA, stopping the Registrar of Political Parties from taking any action against the party until the full case is heard.

Justice Mugeta identified serious concerns over bias and breaches of natural justice, pointing out that the Registrar acted as complainant, witness, and judge at the same time.

The issue started after the Registrar demanded CHADEMA’s Secretary General explain alleged violations of the Political Parties Act related to party statements criticizing government handling of the 2025 elections.CHADEMA responded with a detailed rebuttal, arguing the Registrar was trying to criminalise protected speech.

The court noted that suspending a political party causes irreparable harm because political activity is essential for democratic governance, and no monetary compensation could replace lost civic space and participation.

Justice Mugeta emphasized the existential risk to the party if suspension occurred, warning it could lead to disappearance of the party as members migrate elsewhere.

The ruling also raises broader questions about the Registrar’s impartiality and whether regulatory powers are being misused against opposition parties, highlighting concerns about political suppression in Tanzania.