The Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry investigating violent incidents during Tanzania’s October 29, 2025 General Election, Othman Chande, has dismissed claims that the extension of the commission’s mandate was intended to tamper with its findings, insisting the body operates independently and without outside influence.
Speaking about the progress of the commission’s work, Justice Chande said the team had no intermediaries and was not subject to interference from any individual or institution.
“The commission is independent in every respect. We are our own editors and proofreaders. We only meet the authority that assigned us the task when we receive the terms of reference and when we submit the final report. There is no one in between and we have no brokers,” he said.
He explained that the commission requested an additional 21 days to complete its assignment due to the scale and complexity of the work, the depth of the investigation and delays in receiving some pieces of evidence.
The need to prepare the final report in both Swahili and English has also added to the workload.
Justice Chande said the commission is currently in the final stages of compiling its report.
The commission began its work on November 20, 2025, and was initially expected to complete the investigation within 90 days.
However, due to various factors, the timeline was extended, with the commission required to submit its report to the President before or by April 3, 2026.
Justice Chande said the extension attracted more public participation than expected, with many citizens coming forward to submit testimony, information and opinions related to the incidents under investigation.
As a result, the commission continued to receive additional submissions, making it difficult to conclude its work within the revised timeline and prompting the request for more time.
He also thanked citizens and stakeholders who cooperated with the commission during the inquiry, including those who appeared in person to provide testimony, those who submitted written evidence and opinions, and those who communicated through phone calls and social media platforms.
According to Justice Chande, the cooperation from the public has been crucial in enabling the commission to collect comprehensive information for the preparation of its final report.
