Tanga – In a speech to senior military officials here on December 15, 2025, President Samia emphasised the importance of the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) as an institution for all Tanzanians, regardless of the ruling political party. 

“This institution is different from politics,” she stated. “Whether CCM is in government, whether there is CHADEMA, whether there is any other party, this institution is there to protect the country and its citizens.”

The President’s remarks come in the wake of a contentious election on October 29, 2025, which was marred by the largest protests in the nation’s history and a nationwide internet shutdown. 

The protests, largely driven by young people, were a response to what many perceived as a non-competitive election and a decline in multiparty democracy. The government responded with a crackdown that included a curfew and the use of force against demonstrators.

Prior to the election, the TPDF had issued two public statements in October, warning against attempts to drag the military into politics. The first statement, on October 5, was a reaction to a viral video of an individual in a military-style uniform calling for military intervention. 

READ MORE: Army Issues Second Statement in 11 Days, Warns Against Social Media Misinformation 

The second, on October 16, reiterated the warning against social media misinformation as tensions mounted over planned election day protests.

The political climate leading up to the election was tense, with the main opposition party, CHADEMA, boycotting the polls, citing a lack of electoral reforms. The government was also accused of a “carrots and sticks” approach, cracking down on opposition voices while simultaneously announcing populist measures such as new public sector jobs and a minimum wage increase.

In her speech, President Samia also stressed the need for the military to invest in modern training and technology to counter contemporary threats. 

“For a long time now, our army has continued to be an example in the African region and the world at large due to its professionalism, discipline, and obedience,” she said. “To continue building a strong and exemplary army, it is important to invest in training and exercises that are in line with modern threats and the use of new technology.”