CHAIRPERSON of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Judge Jacobs Mwambegele, has called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to play a leading role in promoting peace, transparency, and public trust in the lead-up to the October General Election.

Addressing CSOs representatives at a stakeholder meeting in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Judge Mwambegele emphasised the dual role of CSOs: as a vital communication bridge between the commission and the public and as indispensable electoral partners. 

 “We believe that with your involvement and clear understanding of the electoral process, you will effectively educate and mobilise citizens to participate responsibly and meaningfully in the 2025 General Election,” he said.

The INEC Chair outlined the electoral timetable, highlighted key legal reforms introduced in 2024 and cautioned against political intolerance as campaigns near.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to delivering a “free, transparent, fair and credible election,” urging CSOs to use their influence to promote peace and discourage inflammatory rhetoric.

With official campaigns set to run from 28 August to 28 October 2025 on the mainland, and ending 27 October in Zanzibar, heightened political activity is expected across the country.

“Experience shows us that political temperatures rise during campaigns,” he said. “We urge civil society to remain vocal in advocating for peace and reminding the public that no political ambition is worth destabilising our nation.”

This year’s election marks the first under a newly strengthened legal framework following the enactment of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Councillor Elections Act No. 1 of 2024 and The Independent National Electoral Commission Act No. 2 of 2024.

To support implementation, the commission has developed new regulations, a code of conduct and stakeholder guidelines — all of which will be distributed to CSOs to ensure that their education and monitoring efforts are in full compliance with the law.

The commission has authorised 164 organisations to conduct voter education and accredited 122 local and international observers to monitor the electoral process.

“The commission greatly values this partnership,” Mwambegele noted. “However, all authorised organisations must strictly follow the law and commission guidelines at all times.”

The 2025 General Election will feature 272 constituencies — including eight new ones on the mainland — and elections will be held in 3,960 wards, following the addition of five new wards by the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government.

The event was part of a series of nationwide stakeholder meetings that began on 27 July and will continue through 3 August. These engagements aim to enhance transparency and reinforce stakeholder collaboration as the election approaches.

Closing his address, Judge Mwambegele expressed confidence in CSOs' continued collaboration: “You stood with us during the voter register update. We now ask that you walk with us through to Election Day and beyond.”