The Head of the African Union (AU) Election Observation Mission and former President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi, has commended Tanzania for its readiness and commitment to holding free, fair and transparent elections ahead of the October 29, 2025 General Election.
Masisi made the remarks in Dar es Salaam after holding talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, at the Ministry’s sub-office.
He said the AU was encouraged by Tanzania’s preparations and its assurance to uphold democratic principles during the upcoming polls.
“We appreciate the cooperation extended to the African Union and the openness of the Tanzanian authorities. Our mission will work closely with national institutions to ensure the process is credible and reflects the will of the people,” said Masisi.
Masisi emphasized that the AU team would adhere to Tanzania’s electoral laws and the union’s guidelines on good governance and democracy.
He described the mission’s presence as a demonstration of Africa’s collective responsibility to safeguard democratic processes across the continent.
On his part, Ambassador Kombo reaffirmed the government’s readiness for the elections, saying Tanzania remains committed to ensuring peace, transparency and accountability throughout the process.
“The Government has taken deliberate measures to guarantee a peaceful and credible election. Our institutions are working together to uphold democracy and strengthen public confidence,” he said.
He noted that the government has continued to engage key stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, and the international community, to enhance trust in the electoral process.
Ambassador Kombo said Tanzania has recorded a 26.5 percent increase in voter registration, reflecting strong public participation and confidence in the democratic system.
He added that voter education campaigns are ongoing nationwide to ensure citizens are well-informed ahead of the polls.
“All these initiatives aim to ensure the election is not only peaceful but also truly representative of the will of every Tanzanian,” Kombo stressed.
He commended the AU for its unwavering support in promoting democracy and good governance in Africa, saying the organization’s mission would add value to the credibility of the 2025 elections.
Masisi’s team arrived in the country as part of the AU’s broader effort to monitor electoral processes across member states, ensuring adherence to continental principles of democracy, human rights, and political inclusion.
The AU mission will work closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders throughout the electoral period to provide an independent and professional assessment of Tanzania’s 2025 General Election.