The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has invited qualified institutions and civil society organisations to apply for permission to provide voter education ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary and councillorship by-elections scheduled for February 26, 2026.
In a public notice, INEC said the by-election for Member of Parliament will be conducted in Peramiho Constituency, Songea District Council in Ruvuma Region, while a councillorship by-election will take place in Shiwinga Ward, Mbozi District Council in Songwe Region. Both polls will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
The Commission said the invitation is issued in accordance with Section 10(1)(g) and (h) of the Independent National Electoral Commission Act No. 2 of 2024, as well as Regulations 22 and 23 of the 2024 INEC Regulations, which empower the Commission to accredit institutions involved in voter education.
INEC is seeking to engage credible and experienced organisations to support voter awareness and participation during the by-election period, as part of efforts to strengthen democratic processes and promote informed participation by citizens.
Interested institutions and civil society organisations have been directed to submit their applications through the Commission’s online Accreditation Management System (AMS) available on its official website, www.inec.go.tz.
To qualify, applicants must be legally registered under the laws of Tanzania and must have operated in the country for a minimum of six months since registration.
Organisations involving international staff are required to ensure that at least two of their three top leaders are Tanzanian citizens.
Applicants must also have no record of incitement or actions that threaten peace and security, and must demonstrate proven experience in providing voter education.
INEC further stated that organisations must be prepared to fund their voter education activities independently, as the Commission will not provide financial or material support for the exercise.
As part of the application process, organisations are required to attach copies of their registration certificates and constitutions, submit the names of three senior officials, and provide full physical addresses along with office and leadership contact details.
The Commission said applications will be received from January 20 to January 26, 2026, and stressed that only applications submitted through the AMS system will be considered.
INEC cautioned that applications sent through other channels will not be processed, urging interested organisations to strictly follow the stated procedures and timelines.