Vote counting commenced on Wednesday evening as Tanzanians participated in the Tanzania Local Government Elections to choose their local leaders.
The exercise, viewed as a litmus test for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration ahead of next year’s General Election, encountered some irregularities raised by the opposition but proceeded without major incidents in most regions.
Polling stations opened at 8:00 a.m., with voting continuing until 4:00 p.m. Despite rain disrupting activities in Mwanza, several regions reported good voter turnout. Preliminary results began trickling in around 8:00 p.m., offering early insights into the voting trends. 
Opposition Highlights Challenges in Tanzania Local Government Elections
Concerns emerged from the opposition Chadema party over alleged irregularities at polling stations. In Kibaha, Chadema’s Coast Region chairman, Bumija Senkondo, reported ballot boxes filled with pre-marked votes.
Police detained Senkondo and a colleague for six hours before releasing them on bail, pending further investigations.
In Dodoma, Chadema’s regional chairperson, Aisha Madoga, clashed with election officials at Site One polling station after reportedly arriving with unregistered individuals. Election Supervisor Dr. Frederick Sagamiko confirmed that the incident did not disrupt the voting process, which proceeded smoothly.
In Mwanza, four individuals, including Chadema’s district secretary, faced accusations of attempting to steal a ballot box. However, Chadema officials claimed their agents had uncovered pre-marked ballots and alerted authorities, only to be arrested themselves.
High Turnout Amid Organizational Hurdles
Despite these incidents, voter turnout appeared robust in several areas. Musoma Municipality saw busy polling stations, with Chadema’s Julius Mwita acknowledging the enthusiasm of voters while noting challenges.
The ruling CCM’s Benedict Magiri echoed similar sentiments, commending the dedication of voters and election officials.
However, delays occurred in some polling stations as voters struggled to locate their names in the registry. Erica Jeremiah, a voter at Ilala Boma Polling Station in Dar es Salaam, expressed frustration over the disorganization.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan Encourages Peaceful Participation
President Samia Suluhu Hassan cast her vote at Sokoine Polling Station in Chamwino, Dodoma. She praised the improved voter turnout compared to previous elections and urged citizens to uphold peace and respect throughout the process.
“We must ensure that this election and all others are conducted harmoniously,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability during the democratic exercise.
Looking Ahead to General Elections
As the Tanzania Local Government Elections wrap up, the results will set the tone for the upcoming General Election. With challenges in some regions and a mix of optimism and complaints, the elections points to the evolving dynamics of Tanzania’s political landscape.
Read More:
