By The Respondents Reporter
The Chairperson of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Judge (Appeal) Jacobs C.M. Mwambegele, has issued an official statement ahead of parliamentary by-elections in Siha and Fuoni constituencies and council elections in five wards across Mainland Tanzania, scheduled for Tuesday, 30 December 2025.
The by-elections will take place in Siha Constituency in Kilimanjaro Region and Fuoni Constituency in Zanzibar, while the council elections will be conducted in Chamwino Ward of Morogoro Municipal Council, Mbagala Kuu Ward of Temeke Municipal Council in Dar es Salaam, Nyakasungwa Ward in Mwanza, Masoko Ward in Mbeya, and Ndono Ward in Tabora.
A total of 33 candidates from 17 political parties will contest the parliamentary and council seats. Of these, 21 are men and 12 are women.
INEC commended all political parties and candidates for their active participation, highlighting the growing commitment to democratic processes.
INEC reminded political parties to ensure their agents are present at all polling stations to monitor voting, counting, and tallying.
These agents play a key role in safeguarding the interests of their parties and candidates while observing the law and INEC regulations.
Voters are urged to cast their ballots at the polling stations where they are registered and to bring their voter cards. Special attention will be given to the elderly, sick individuals, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and mothers with young children.
Voters without a photo in the Permanent Voters Register but holding a valid voter card will be allowed to vote, as will those whose card numbers slightly differ but match the register in other key details.
Voters who have lost or damaged their voter cards may use a national ID, driver’s license, or passport, provided the information matches the register. Anyone not listed in the register will not be permitted to vote.
Polling stations will open at 7:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM. Voters in line at closing time will still be allowed to cast their ballots, while those arriving after will not.
All voters are expected to follow instructions from polling officers to ensure a smooth process.
INEC called on citizens to turn out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right and choose leaders who reflect their aspirations.
“Your vote, your right – go out and vote!”