By Adonis Byemelwa
In a contentious move that has sparked widespread debate and concern, the opposition party ACT-Wazalendo has called for the resignation of the current National Electoral Commission (NEC) in Tanzania. Their demand comes in the wake of what they perceive as widespread irregularities and misconduct during recent by-elections held across the country.
The demand for resignation, announced on Sunday, March 24, 2024, by ACT-Wazalendo, has its roots in discontent with both the recent by-elections held on March 20, 2024, and past electoral procedures since President Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed office.
In a surprising development, ACT-Wazalendo, a significant opposition entity in Tanzania, has sounded the alarm following a series of arrests involving its key leaders and members during the fiercely contested Kasingirima ward by-election in Kigoma Ujiji.
Among those detained are prominent figures such as Abdul Nondo, Chairperson of the Youth Wing, and Selemani Simba, Chairperson of the Elders Wing in Kigoma. These arrests unfolded amidst mounting accusations of electoral malpractice, with ACT-Wazalendo vehemently asserting that a member of the ruling party, CCM, was apprehended red-handed while attempting to manipulate the electoral process by casting fake votes at the Livingston polling station.
The party alleges that the recent by-elections mirrored the flawed practices observed in the 2020 General Election, prompting them to advocate for the establishment of a new Electoral Commission through a competitive process, as stipulated in the newly enacted Electoral Commission Bill.
The Electoral Commission Bill, passed by Parliament on February 2nd, 2024, marked a significant legislative development aimed at reforming Tanzania’s electoral landscape. Alongside this bill, Parliament also passed the Independent Electoral Commission Act and made amendments to certain sections of existing electoral laws. Despite the passage of these laws, their implementation has faced delays, raising concerns among opposition parties like ACT-Wazalendo.
Abdulrahman Kinana, Vice-Chairman of CCM-Bara, sought to reassure Tanzanians regarding the integrity of upcoming elections during a general meeting of ACT-Wazalendo. Kinana affirmed President Samia’s commitment to ensuring free and fair elections. However, such assurances have done little to assuage the grievances expressed by ACT-Wazalendo and its Vice-Chairman, Issihaka Mchinjita.
Mchinjita accused the Electoral Commission of collusion, alleging that ballot papers were distributed to members of the ruling CCM party to manipulate election outcomes. He claimed that despite attempts to report these irregularities, the Electoral Commission failed to take action, with police allegedly siding with CCM cadres during confrontations. ACT-Wazalendo’s demand for the resignation of the Electoral Commission underscores their loss of confidence in the institution’s ability to oversee fair elections.
In response to ACT-Wazalendo’s call for resignation, NEC’s Director of Voter Education and Information Department, Giveness Aswile, emphasized the need to follow due process outlined in the new electoral laws. Aswile acknowledged the Commission’s role as a neutral referee but emphasized the reliance on stakeholders for assistance in navigating legal procedures. He urged patience from ACT-Wazalendo while highlighting the Commission’s commitment to awaiting instructions regarding the implementation of the new laws.
The controversy surrounding the recent by-elections has drawn attention to the need for comprehensive electoral reforms in Tanzania. While election supervisor Ibrahim Mwanauta attested to the fairness of the elections in the Chiputa Ward, allegations of misconduct persist, prompting calls for institutional accountability and transparency.
Legal experts such as Teresphor Magobe and Dr. Laurean Mussa shed light on the procedural intricacies involved in implementing the new electoral laws. Komba emphasized that the effectiveness of the laws hinges on presidential endorsement and subsequent regulatory measures. Henga echoed similar sentiments, underlining the importance of regulatory frameworks in enforcing electoral reforms.
In nascent democratic systems, the presence of opposition parties can intensify existing challenges. ACT-Wazalendo’s demand for the Electoral Commission’s resignation underscores the delicate balance between political pluralism and institutional stability. In such environments, opposition parties often face hurdles in holding those in power accountable, as seen in Tanzania’s case with allegations of misconduct and electoral irregularities.
Moreover, fledgling democratic systems may lack robust mechanisms for resolving disputes and ensuring equitable participation, further amplifying tensions between ruling and opposition factions. This can lead to a cycle of mistrust and polarization, hindering the development of a healthy democratic culture.
Additionally, the absence of strong institutions and a culture of accountability may perpetuate impunity and undermine public confidence in the electoral process. As Tanzania grapples with these complexities, the role of opposition parties in nurturing democratic norms while navigating political turbulence remains a critical yet formidable task. Balancing the rights of opposition parties with the need for institutional stability presents a significant challenge, highlighting the imperative for comprehensive electoral reforms and a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy.
