The Tanzania Democracy and Development Institute (TADED) has asserted that no political party or organization possesses the legal authority to prevent the forthcoming General Election, constitutionally held every five years.
Speaking at a press conference in Dar es Salaam, TADED Chairman Mr. Chalila Kibuda emphasized that voting is a constitutional right of every Tanzanian citizen, and no entity can infringe upon that right.
"According to the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, every citizen has the right to vote. No political party or organization can prevent people from exercising this democratic right," said Mr. Kibuda.
He explained that TADED is preparing to mobilize citizens to actively participate in the electoral process, attend campaign rallies, listen to candidates, and vote wisely during the general election.
Kibuda emphasized that campaigns should focus on policy issues and party agendas rather than insults and personal attacks, which he said are not a priority for voters interested in development.
"This election belongs to the people, and it is their constitutional right to choose leaders who will serve for the next five years. That right cannot be denied," he noted.
Referring to recent political statements such as "No Reforms, No Election" by some political parties, Kibuda dismissed the notion, stating that under the current constitution, no political party, not even the ruling one, has the power to stop a national election.
He added that preparations for the election are progressing well, including voter registration across the country. He urged political parties and stakeholders to focus on encouraging democratic participation rather than spreading threats or ultimatums.
Since the last general election in 2020, there has been ample time for all parties to engage with electoral reforms and contribute to the democratic process, he said, adding that the government has taken steps to improve the political environment.
Kibuda praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for restoring political stability and fostering dialogue through lifting bans on political rallies and enabling parties to conduct meetings freely.
“We’re now witnessing a calm and peaceful country where citizens go about their daily lives without fear. This is a reflection of the peace and stability that the President and her administration have nurtured,” he said.
He also highlighted how Tanzania’s political calm has become a key attraction for foreign investment, citing the completion of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project and ongoing construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Dodoma to Mwanza as key development milestones.
Tourism, too, has benefited from President Samia’s efforts, particularly through her global promotional initiative, The Royal Tour, which has helped position Tanzania as a top travel destination.
Additionally, Kibuda noted that Tanzania has enhanced its diplomatic ties, with the President's international visits yielding tangible results in terms of foreign investment and partnerships.
TADED announced it will conduct nationwide forums involving local artists and religious leaders ahead of the elections to raise awareness and encourage peaceful participation. However, Kibuda said further details of the campaign will not be disclosed to the media at this stage.
He reiterated the Institute’s commitment to ensuring a democratic, peaceful, and inclusive electoral process, underlining that elections are a fundamental part of Tanzania’s democracy that must not be obstructed.
