The Hidden Glory of Gen Z in African Leadership: Determinants of Electoral Violence in Tanzania

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of electoral violence in Tanzania and the transformative role of Generation Z (Gen-Z) in promoting peace and democratic development. The study is contextualised within the demonstrations and civil unrest that began on 29 October 2025 amid Tanzania’s general election, following allegations of electoral irregularities, suppression of opposition parties, and police intimidation. Using a cross-sectional design, primary data were collected from 384 respondents in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Mbeya through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics and the Relative Importance Index (RII). Findings indicate that electoral violence is primarily driven by governance and institutional failures, particularly unanswered citizens’ demands (RII = 83.6%), a discredited electoral commission (RII = 81.8%), and weak institutions (RII = 73.2%). Political manipulation (RII = 73.3%) and unemployment (RII = 59.6%) also contribute significantly. Contrary to common assumptions, 83.4% of respondents rejected the view that youth are mobilised for violence (RII = 21.1%), while 91.1% agreed that youth promote peace. Gen-Z influence is evident through social media (99.7%, RII = 83.2%) and increased participation (98.5%, RII = 78.0%). They are perceived as agenda shapers (RII = 89.2%) and opinion influencers (RII = 87.4%), although 82.6% reported that inadequate support limits their potential. The study concludes that electoral violence is rooted primarily in systemic governance failures and socio-economic inequalities rather than identity-based divisions. It recommends strengthening democratic institutions, addressing youth unemployment, enhancing civic education, and promoting inclusive political participation to harness Gen-Z as agents of peace and sustainable democratic development.