Tanzania: Why your vote matters

DAR ES SALAAM: Local Government Election, slated for this year, the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) is closely monitoring the democratic process to ensure that ‘clean’ leaders are obtained through the ballot box.

Speaking exclusively to the ‘Daily News’ recently, PCCB’s Ilala Regional Bureau Chief, Sosthenes Kibwengo, said the anti-graft watchdog has already launched a campaign dubbed ‘Understanding the Value of Your Vote,’ which aims to educate wananchi not to fall into the trap of pseudo-politicians who use corruption to lure voters.

“PCCB understands that corruption can affect election processes. It can act as an obstacle for society to get responsible leaders.

As we know, irresponsible leaders are not accountable to anyone, operating under the assumption that they have been elected by their own money,” he said.

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To get good leaders who can foster development in their respective localities, the PCCB regional chief called on citizens to be aware of the entire democratic process to make informed decisions during elections.

The PCCB’s Ilala boss went on to insist that “electing clean leaders means development,” hence wananchi should not waste the forthcoming opportunity by electing leaders who would hinder the provision of social services, in cluding but not limited to water and education.

“Your vote is your development; it is education and the welfare of society. It is about quality social services,” he reiterated.

According to Mr Kibwengo, the PCCB in Ilala Region is organising several meetings with religious leaders over the matter because they are key stakeholders in fighting graft in the election process.

Other initiatives include meetings with political leaders and local government executives and public announcements in key areas, including bus terminals and markets.

Recently, according to him, PCCB organised a workshop attracting 1,000 stakeholders in Ilala Constituency, Dar es Salaam.

“Together we address the challenge of corruption in elections. Let us play our part,” he insisted.

Local government election is held every five years, the last one was held in 2019 and the next one is expected to be held at the end of this year.