Tanzania: politicisation of intelligence and 'intelligencisation' of politics

Ujasusi Blog’s East Africa Monitoring Team | 10 October 2025 | 0515 BST

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[Previously published on 05/05/2025]

Introduction
The nexus between intelligence services and political authority in Tanzania has long been a defining, albeit opaque, feature of the country's governance landscape. The politicisation of intelligence—the manipulation of intelligence bodies for partisan objectives—and the 'intelligencization' of politics—the infiltration of intelligence influence into political decision-making—form a complex web that continues to shape Tanzanian governance. This article comprehensively analyses these phenomena, traces their historical origins, examines current trends, and explores the broader implications for democracy, national security, and international relations.