Tanzania's October poll shows that elections are purely performative for governments which do not adhere to the basic tenets of democracy.
Magufuli took a populist approach in trying to woo voters away from an invigorated opposition, and when that didn't work he reported to oppressive tactics.
His COVID-19 response has thrown the negative aspects of his presidency into sharp relief.
The electoral commission and the state apparatus have prevented a level playing field ahead of the polls.
If elected next month, Joe Biden must do more than turn the clock back to pre-Trump days.
