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.
Exploiting public office to win elections is common but Madagascar and Cabo Verde are making polls more fair.
Magufuli approaches elections buoyed by victory in the local polls and a solid track record on the economy.
