Morogoro Training Emphasizes Integrity and Professionalism in Elections
Election officials in Morogoro Region were urged to uphold integrity, honesty, and patriotism as Tanzania prepares for a landmark vote. Judge Asina Omari, a member of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), delivered the message during a training session for presiding officers and assistants in Mvomero District. The event, which ran from Sunday into Monday, brought together participants from the Mlali, Turiani, and Mvomero divisions to reinforce best practices ahead of the general election.
The INEC representative outlined clear procedures and ethical standards designed to ensure every step of the electoral process adheres to national laws and regulations. “It is the responsibility of every election official to execute their duties professionally and impartially,” Judge Omari stated, underscoring the commission’s commitment to a fair, peaceful, and transparent election.
Officials were reminded of the importance of punctuality at polling stations, with opening and closing times highlighted as a key factor in maintaining voter confidence. The insistence on timely operations is part of a broader strategy to minimize voter delays and complaints on election day.
Ready for the Polls: Center Inspections and Inclusive Voting
During her visit, Judge Omari inspected several polling centres in Dakawa Ward to gauge readiness ahead of the vote. The checks are part of INEC’s ongoing efforts to ensure that infrastructure, staffing, and materials meet the demands of a credible electoral process.
Mary Kayowa, the Mvomero Constituency Returning Officer, also played a pivotal role by supervising the Mlali Divisional Centre’s training session. Kayowa urged participants to maintain confidentiality, discipline, integrity, and professionalism—principles she believes are essential for a peaceful and credible election. She stressed that adherence to INEC directives is non-negotiable and critical to safeguarding the democratic rights of citizens.
Significantly, Kayowa highlighted a commitment to accessibility. She announced that Braille ballot papers would be available for visually impaired voters, and that polling stations would feature user-friendly voting booths suitable for all voters, including persons with disabilities, pregnant women, mothers with infants, and the elderly. This emphasis on inclusivity reflects Tanzania’s broader efforts to ensure that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote without unnecessary barriers.
Scale and Scope of the Election Administration
In the Mvomero Constituency, there are 771 polling stations, with more than 3,000 presiding and assistant presiding officers receiving training. The breadth of this program demonstrates INEC’s preparations to manage a large voter population and complex logistical needs. Jama Seif, one of the trained presiding officers, expressed confidence that the day of the election will be free, fair, and conducted with integrity, thanks to the comprehensive preparation and guidance provided by the Commission.
The upholding of professional standards is central to the election’s legitimacy. Judge Omari’s remarks align with the overarching theme guiding the electoral process: “Your Vote, Your Right — Turn Out and Vote.” With the General Election for the President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors scheduled to occur tomorrow, the focus remains on transparency, security, and voters’ confidence in the system.
What This Means for Voters
For voters, the training underscores a transparent process where observers and the public can expect adherence to rules and equity at every polling station. The inclusion of accessibility measures ensures that those with disabilities or additional needs can participate fully. As the electoral cycle advances, the commitment to integrity by election officials stands as a cornerstone of Tanzania’s democratic framework.
Overall, the Morogoro training session signals a deliberate effort by INEC to fuse professional conduct with practical measures—timely operations, confidentiality, inclusivity, and strict adherence to directives—to deliver an election that reflects the will of the people without compromising fairness or safety.
