The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the schedule for the by-election in Ismani Constituency, Iringa Region, alongside elections for councillors in 12 wards across mainland Tanzania.
The Commission made the announcement in Zanzibar on April 20, 2026, stating that the Ismani parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of former Member of Parliament William Vangimembe Lukuvi, who passed away on March 25, 2026. He served under the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi.
INEC said it had formally received notification from the Speaker of the Parliament of Tanzania confirming the vacancy, in line with the provisions of electoral laws.
In addition to the parliamentary seat, INEC confirmed that 12 councillor positions have also fallen vacant in various local government authorities across the country.
The vacancies were caused by the deaths of 11 councillors, while one councillor lost their seat after losing eligibility due to disqualification from party membership.
The affected wards include Mzimuni (Kinondoni), Zongomera (Kahama), Itilo (Nzega), Ketare (Tarime), Nyumbigwa (Kasulu), Kala (Nkasi), Ziba (Igunga), Kamsisi (Mlele), Nyamugali (Buhigwe), Namasakata (Tunduru), Bwongera (Chato), and Kibiti (Kibiti).
According to INEC, the election process will officially begin with the issuance of nomination forms from May 4 to May 10, 2026. Candidate nominations will be conducted on May 10, 2026.
Campaign activities for both parliamentary and councillor candidates will run from May 11 to May 31, 2026. The by-election will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026.
INEC has called on political parties, candidates, and all stakeholders to strictly observe the Constitution, electoral laws, regulations, and the electoral code of conduct, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, fairness, and integrity throughout the entire electoral process.
