Python • compile python from source with tkinter support

All,

I have a python project that requires tkinter. I am attempting to compile python from source.

And no matter what I do, I get the following error in the configuration step:
checking for stdlib extension module _tkinter... missing

I have exhausted google and AI searches. All AI queries insist that I must not have installed "tk-dev" or "tcl-dev". I definitely have those installed. I have carefully followed the instructions on here https://docs.python.org/3/using/configu ... quirements.

More specifics:
- I am attempting to build python 3.14.2
- Here is my RPI version: Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Plus Rev 1.3

As you can see, I am running a pretty old version of the PI. So I am thinking that might be my problem. I have an old version of python installed, but I would need to refactor some of my code to support the older version. I would very much like to compile the latest version. And I can get python to compile (without tkinter). But unless I use another GUI framework, I need tkinter (and I'd really rather not refactor my code to use a different framework).

I would really appreciate any pointers.

Thanks.

Statistics: Posted by enthusiast_rpi — Sun Dec 28, 2025 10:35 pm

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