Coast Region Ready for a Smooth General Election
The Coast Region is poised for a peaceful and orderly General Election, according to Regional Commissioner (RC) Abubakar Kunenge. Speaking at his Kibaha Municipal Council office, the RC reassured residents that comprehensive preparations are complete, underscoring a collaborative effort with stakeholders, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and religious leaders to ensure a smooth voting experience for all citizens.
Comprehensive Preparations and Civic Education
In his remarks to reporters, the RC highlighted a structured plan designed to empower voters through civic education. “We have undertaken all essential preparations to ensure a smooth voting process. This includes engaging residents through awareness campaigns and equipping them with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities,” he stated. The emphasis on civic education reflects a broader commitment to informed participation and democratic engagement across the region.
The RC noted that the region’s civic education program is a multi-stakeholder effort, integrating activities with civil society groups, NGOs, and faith-based organizations. By leveraging these partnerships, authorities aim to reach diverse communities and address potential questions about voting procedures, candidate information, and the importance of peaceful participation.
Polling Stations and Voting Day Readiness
A critical element of the Coast Region’s election-day plan is the operational readiness of polling stations. The RC confirmed that the region maintains a total of 3,941 polling stations, all of which will be open throughout the voting day to accommodate voters efficiently. This expansive network is designed to minimize wait times and ensure accessibility for voters across urban centers and rural communities alike.
Security arrangements are also in place to safeguard voters and protect property. “We are well-prepared to ensure citizens can vote freely without any obstructions. Our security forces are coordinated to guarantee the safety of voters and the peaceful conduct of the elections,” the RC said, reassuring the public that law enforcement agencies are ready to respond promptly to any incidents and to deter misinformation.
Public Holiday and National Unity
The RC expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for declaring election day a public holiday, a gesture intended to give citizens ample time to participate. The holiday aims to remove time constraints and encourage broad-based participation, reflecting a national commitment to inclusive democratic processes.
Kunenge also urged residents to maintain unity and uphold peace as the election approaches. He cautioned against misinformation and urged citizens to rely on official sources for information. “Voting is your democratic and constitutional right, and you must exercise it responsibly,” he emphasized, adding that those who go to vote will not be harmed by design. The message underscores the government’s intention to create a calm and transparent electoral environment.
What This Means for Voters
For voters across the Coast Region, the RC’s assurances translate into practical guidance: plan your travel to a nearby polling station, bring valid identification as required, and participate in the civic process with confidence. The dedication to civic education, a robust polling network, and visible security coverage all contribute to a voters’ environment where participation is encouraged and protected.
Looking Ahead
As election day nears, officials across the Coast Region will remain in close contact with community leaders to monitor developments and promptly address concerns. The overarching objective is simple: deliver a smooth, fair, and peaceful General Election that reflects the will of the people and upholds the democratic values that define the nation.
