THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged assistant registrars and Biometrics Voter Registration (BVR) operators to perform their duties at polling stations in strict adherence to the commission’s laws, regulations and procedures, focusing on the care of equipment.

INEC Chairman Judge Jacobs Mwambegele made the call yesterday during his meeting with participants of a two-day training session for assistant registrars and BVR equipment operators in Ukonga Constituency, Dar es Salaam.

“Ensure that you follow all the laws, regulations, and procedures. All of this will be taught but if you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to contact the commission to ensure the process runs smoothly," he said.

Mwambegele emphasised that participants responsible for updating the Permanent Voter Register in Dar es Salaam should ensure they handle the equipment with care. He explained that the equipment had been used nationwide for 12 cycles organised by the commission, and the 13th cycle will take place in Dar es Salaam from March 17 to 23, 2025. 

“The same equipment will be used for this cycle and must be well-maintained as it will also be used during the second phase of the nationwide registration process,” he said.

"If you had not taken proper care of the equipment, we wouldn't be here today. These items were purchased with taxpayers' money at a very high cost. So, I urge you to take good care of them both during this training and throughout the process." 

During a similar training session in Temeke Municipality, INEC Commissioner Judge Asina Omari urged assistant registrars and BVR equipment operators to pay close attention to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the training to ensure they can perform their duties effectively.

 Earlier, during the opening of the training, following the administration of an oath of neutrality and confidentiality to participants, the electoral officer for Dar es Salaam City, advocate Faraja Nakua, urged participants to carry out their duties with professionalism and maintain a courteous approach towards the public.

The two-day training which began yesterday and ends today is part of preparations for the update of the Permanent Voter Register in Dar es Salaam, scheduled to take place from March 17 to 23, 2025.