What first-time voters expect from civic poll
TANZANIA: AS the local government elections approach next month, citizens, including first-time voters, have expressed hope that the civic poll will lead to meaningful change and better representation at the local level.
Majority are saying that they will elect effective leaders who are accountable and capable to address local issues such as safety, sanitation and public services.
They feel that this exercise will increase citizens’ participations in decision making. Many emphasise the importance of engaging in the electoral process to ensure their voices are heard and to influence local governance.
Majority, especially the first-time voters are pleased with the smooth registration process. They view the exercise as an efficient and hassle-free registration and they hope the same will happen in the voting process.
A ten-day voter registration process is currently underway and the government announced on Tuesday that about 45 per cent of eligible Tanzanians have registered on the voter roll for upcoming Local Government Election scheduled for November 27th this year.
The registration was launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who led citizens in signing up at Chamwino village last week in Dodoma.
With only three days left for eligible Tanzanians to register on the voter roll, ‘Daily News’ spoke with residents from various regions who offered their insights on the exercise.
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Ms Herieth Mmasy, a resident of Ubungo in Dar es Salaam, emphasised the importance of local government elections.
While engaged in her daily tailoring activities, she stated, “Local government elections are crucial because local authorities oversee essential services like health, water and environmental conservation.
When we elect leaders whether a chairperson or representative we choose individuals responsible for our safety and security in the community. Moreover, these leaders address critical issues such as cleanliness and waste management. Without effective leadership, these matters would likely go unresolved,” she stated.
Mmasy further stressed the necessity for broad participation, noting that local authorities provide a platform for citizens to voice their opinions, which can inform government strategies for poverty alleviation.
‘Daily News’ also spoke with Donald Joseph, 20, who was hurrying to finalise his university admission. This year marks his first time voting and he expressed optimism about the process. Reflecting on his childhood, he recalled watching local leaders collect sanitation and security fees while addressing community concerns without a clear understanding of the electoral process.
“Now, I see how everything is starting to make sense,” he said. “I understand the importance of participating and gaining experience in choosing quality leaders. I hope the process goes smoothly so I can engage without issues.”
He said so far it has been a smooth registration process.
“It has been an efficient and hassle-free registration so far,” he said, expressing his hope that the voting process will be the same.
Joseph pointed out the significance of youth involvement, stating, “Local government elections allow us to share our ideas on managing our communities. For instance, we could propose an electronic system for collecting security fees to simplify the process.”
He insisted that youth representation remains crucial because young voters seek opportunities to express their ideas and concerns, particularly in areas like community management and service delivery.
Mr Justin Mkota, a second-year student at the Water Institute in Dar es Salaam, echoed Joseph’s sentiments. He noted that youth participation is vital, as they represent a significant portion of the population.
“Participating strengthens democracy by electing capable leaders who can voice our needs to higher authorities,” he said. “Unfortunately, there’s a gap in knowledge among youth, leading many to believe that elections are unfair and causing them to disengage. This mindset needs to change our participation matters,” he insisted.
Ahmed Nahembe, a bodaboda rider in Mtwara Mikindani, also underlined the elections’ importance. “To acquire our motorbikes, we need identification from the street leaders, which is crucial for accessing social services and legitimising our presence,” Nahembe explained.
He encouraged his peers to actively engage in the electoral process, challenging the notion that voting is only for the older generation or specific parties.
He also called for transparency and fairness during the electoral process. There is a desire for a fair electoral process that encourages broad participation, combating misconceptions that elections are unfair.
Nahembe also insisted for the community improvement initiatives. He said citizens look forward to proposing and supporting innovative solutions, such as electronic systems for service fees, to enhance local governance.
For them all, awareness and education remain crucial. Many recognise the need for increased knowledge about the electoral process to empower more citizens to participate actively.
The Minister of State in the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Mr Mohamed Mchengerwa, addressed journalists in Mwanza on Tuesday, saying that 45 per cent of eligible voters have registered.
“I urge Tanzanians not to wait until the last minute. For those who have not yet registered over 55 per cent please do so at your centres to avoid inconvenience once the voters’ list is released,” Mr Mchengerwa said.
