Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE High Court has reinstated ACT Wazalendo’s presidential candidate, Mr Luhaga Mpina, who had been suspended by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), allowing him to contest in next month’s General Election.
In its ruling, the High Court ordered that Mr Mpina be allowed to submit his nomination forms to INEC.
The verdict was delivered by Judge Kagomba in Dodoma, who declared the suspension issued by INEC unconstitutional, void and of no effect.
“Considering that the barrier issued by INEC is unconstitutional, it is void and of no effect. Therefore, we order that the plaintiffs be given an immediate chance to submit their forms, and the process for receiving them should resume from where it ended on August 27, 2025,” Judge Kagomba stated.
The judge noted that ACT Wazalendo had been denied the opportunity to be heard by INEC before the suspension, which violated constitutional provisions and breached principles of natural justice.
He further pointed out that the suspension lacked proper jurisdiction, as it was imposed prematurely.
“The verdict is a significant milestone in upholding the rule of law in Tanzania,” Judge Kagomba added.
Mr Mpina was initially blocked on August 27 after INEC, acting on a report from the Registrar of Political Parties, claimed he had violated ACT Wazalendo’s internal guidelines for presidential candidate nominations.
Following the suspension, ACT Wazalendo filed an urgent legal suit at the High Court, seeking to remove the barrier on the grounds that the party had not been given a chance to be heard and that INEC had failed to observe natural justice.
With Mr Mpina’s reinstatement, the 2025 presidential race now sees 18 political parties eligible to field candidates, potentially reshaping the electoral dynamics.
Reacting to the judgment, Mr Mpina said the verdict had restored justice.
He reiterated that he was right to pursue his presidential bid through ACT Wazalendo, having ensured that all internal party constitutional requirements were met to support his candidacy.
“This ruling affirms that following proper legal channels is essential in protecting democratic rights. I am grateful to the High Court for upholding the constitution and ensuring fairness,” he said.
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