INEC Commissioner Urges Integrity in Morogoro Training
Presiding officers and their assistants were urged to uphold integrity, honesty, and patriotism as Tanzania gears up for a crucial election. The appeal came from Judge Asina Omari, a Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), during a training session in the Morogoro Region.
Training Across Divisions for a Transparent Process
The training, which ran from Sunday through yesterday, was conducted concurrently across three divisions: Mvomero, Mlali, and Turiani. INEC officials emphasized that the electoral process must be conducted in full accordance with laws, regulations, and ethical standards. Judge Omari underscored that every election official bears responsibility for professional and impartial execution of duties.
Timeliness, Transparency, and Readiness
One of the central messages of the session was the importance of strict adherence to polling station opening and closing times. Officials were reminded that punctuality helps minimize voter confusion and complaints, contributing to a smoother election day experience for all citizens. In a tour of Dakawa Ward, Judge Omari also inspected polling centres to gauge readiness in advance of the vote.
Confidentiality, Discipline, and Voter-Centric Service
Mary Kayowa, the Mvomero Constituency Returning Officer, who led the Mlali Divisional Centre visit, called on all trainees to maintain confidentiality, discipline, integrity, and professionalism. She highlighted that these principles are vital to a peaceful and credible electoral process. Kayowa also urged strict compliance with INEC directives to ensure citizens can exercise their democratic rights without hindrance.
Focus on Voter Accessibility and Inclusivity
Among the priorities discussed were provisions for voters with special needs. The training outlined plans to support persons with disabilities, pregnant women, mothers with infants, and the elderly. For voters who are visually impaired, Braille ballot papers will be provided, enabling independent voting. Polling stations will feature user-friendly voting booths designed to accommodate a diverse electorate.
Preparedness Across the Constituency
In Mvomero Constituency, there are 771 polling stations, and more than 3,000 presiding and assistant presiding officers have received the training. One participant, Ms Jamila Seif, a presiding officer, expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, stating that the comprehensive training and guidance from the Commission have equipped them to conduct the elections freely and fairly. Critics and observers alike will be watching how these officials implement the lessons learned during the training sessions.
Looking Ahead to Election Day
The General Election, featuring the President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors, is scheduled for tomorrow under the theme: “Your Vote, Your Right — Turn Out and Vote.” The message resonates with a national call for high turnout and a peaceful, credible electoral process. INEC’s emphasis on ethics, transparency, and voter-centric services aims to reduce disputes and reinforce trust in the electoral system.
As Tanzania prepares to cast ballots, the collaboration between INEC and local election offices in Morogoro demonstrates a commitment to professional standards at the ground level. The integrity of polling officers, the confidentiality of ballots, and the accessibility of polling stations will be critical components of a fair election that reflects the will of the people.
