Warioba urges civic education ahead of upcoming local govt elections
DAR ES SALAAM: FORMER Prime Minister, Chief Justice (rtd) Joseph Warioba, has called for intensifying provision of civic education ahead of the local government elections scheduled for November 27, 2024.
He insisted the importance of informing citizens about democratic processes to encourage higher participation in voter registration, voting and electing leaders through free and fair elections.
Speaking during a press conference at his home in Dar es Salaam, CJ (rtd) Warioba explained that local government election is crucial for the country’s development, peace and security. He stressed that it is essential for citizens to choose leaders who reflect their preferences.
“The local government election is very important and we want candidates who are trustworthy and represent citizens’ choices. That is the essence and significance of elections,” he said.
He pointed out the need for citizens to be equipped with proper civic education to understand their responsibilities in participating in electoral processes.
“Without this knowledge, many may overlook their civic duties in the upcoming elections,” he said.
He added that since the introduction of multiparty systems in the country in 1992 there have been instances of swift free and fair elections.
However, the 2019/2020 elections revealed significant issues that eroded citizens’ trust in their local government leaders. He recommended that candidates for the upcoming elections should be chosen by the citizens instead of being imposed by political parties, setting the groundwork for the general elections.
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While acknowledging that faults can occur in any election, he urged the government, which oversees local government election, to restore public trust by ensuring that past mistakes are not repeated.
The former premier emphasised that voting for credible candidates is vital for fostering grassroots community development, as it encourages cooperation among citizens without unnecessary misunderstandings.
He warned of the detrimental effects of corruption on democratic processes and citizens’ rights, urging political parties to be cautious in selecting candidates who may prioritise personal interests over public service.
The local government election on mainland Tanzania is set for November 27, with voting scheduled from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
Prime Minister Kasimu Majaliwa recently announced the completion of several preparations for the local government election during the 16th meeting of the 12th Parliament National Assembly.
The completed tasks include the preparation of regulations for electing local government leaders at the village, hamlet and street levels as well as guidelines for civic education and local government elections.
The Premier clarified that other preparations, including announcing the list of administrative areas and verifying polling stations, are at various stages of completion.
