As Tanzanians prepare to head to the polls, major public transport companies have suspended all upcountry and Zanzibar services ahead of election day to allow citizens to vote and to maintain safety during the national exercise.
The decision, which takes effect from Tuesday evening, affects long-distance buses, ferries, and a few domestic flight services linking Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, Mwanza, and Zanzibar.
According to operators, the suspension aims to reduce movement congestion and ensure that voters remain in their registered polling areas as required by the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
In a statement, the Surface and Marine Transport Regulatory Authority (Sumatra) said the suspension will remain in place until after polls close on Wednesday, October 29.
“We are working closely with transport operators to ensure a smooth resumption of services once the electoral process concludes,” said Sumatra Director of Transport Services, Ms. Rehema Mwakalindile.
“This decision will help minimize road traffic and enhance public safety during this important national event.”
Bus companies such as Kilimanjaro Express, Dar Express, and Shabiby Line have already issued notices to passengers, advising them to adjust their travel plans.
Ferry operators on the Dar es Salaam–Zanzibar route have also confirmed temporary halts, citing security protocols and expected port congestion.
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Tanzania Police Force have assured the public of heightened security across all major towns, highways, and ports during the election period.
“We urge all citizens to remain calm and avoid unnecessary travel. Security officers will be stationed in key transport terminals and polling stations to ensure peace and order,” said Police Spokesperson David Misime.
The move comes as part of broader preparations to guarantee peaceful, free, and fair elections, with observers from the African Union (AU) and East African Community (EAC) monitoring the process.
Many Tanzanians have welcomed the suspension, saying it gives everyone a chance to participate in the vote.
“It’s a good step. This election is very important, and we all need to take part,” said Fatuma Mushi, a trader at Ubungo Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam.
However, some travelers expressed frustration over the sudden changes, calling for better communication from bus companies to avoid inconveniences for passengers with urgent travel needs.
The 2025 General Election has attracted national attention as Tanzanians prepare to elect leaders at the presidential, parliamentary, and local government levels.
Major political parties, including Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), CHADEMA, and ACT-Wazalendo, have all concluded campaigns calling for peaceful participation and unity.
With early voting already underway in Zanzibar, the nation’s focus now turns to the mainland as voters prepare for what analysts describe as one of Tanzania’s most closely watched elections in years.
