By Lilian Kasenene - Morogoro
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed regional and constituency election officials to strictly adhere to updated electoral guidelines and legal frameworks, warning against the reliance on outdated practices as the country gears up for the 2025 General Election.
INEC Chairperson and Court of Appeal Judge, Jacobs Mwambegele, issued the directive during today the opening of a three-day capacity-building workshop held in Morogoro for election coordinators, returning officers, assistant returning officers, procurement officers, and ICT staff from Dodoma, Morogoro, and Singida regions.
Judge Mwambegele reminded participants that while some had prior experience in managing elections, recent amendments to electoral laws required a new level of diligence and professionalism.
“There have been significant legal reforms concerning the conduct of presidential, parliamentary, and councillor elections. These changes demand a different approach from past elections,” said Judge Mwambegele.
He called for the full engagement of all duly registered political parties and other stakeholders throughout the electoral process to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust in the outcomes.
Judge Mwambegele also emphasized the importance of early logistical planning, including mapping and assessing polling stations to ensure accessibility and adequate infrastructure.
“You must identify polling stations early, assess their specific needs, and ensure proper arrangements are in place to facilitate a peaceful and orderly voting process,” he said.
In addition, he stressed the need to recruit competent and impartial polling officials, cautioning against favouritism or nepotism.
“Polling station officials must be qualified and ethical. Avoid appointing relatives or individuals who lack the required competence,” he urged.
The INEC Chairperson also underscored the importance of verifying all election materials before deployment. He directed that each polling station manager be fully equipped in advance, and that political parties be provided with the official list of polling stations early to enable them to assign agents accordingly.
He reminded participants that, by law, all polling stations must open at 7:00 a.m. on election day.
On his part, INEC Director of Elections, Mr. Ramadhan Kailima, said the workshop brought together 165 participants from 24 councils across the three regions. The training, he noted, was designed to enhance the preparedness of officials ahead of the upcoming elections.
“As supervisors, we are committed to implementing INEC’s guidelines and fostering inclusive participation to safeguard electoral integrity,” she said.
Ms. Kayowa added that involving all stakeholders from the outset would help prevent misinformation and promote confidence in the process.
The training sessions are part of INEC’s broader strategy to strengthen institutional readiness and ensure a free, fair, and peaceful General Election in 2025.