NEC Chairman, Judge (Court of Appeal) Jacobs Mwambegele. Photo: Courtesy
NEC Launches Voter Register Update in Geita and Kagera, August 5-11 in Major Electoral Reforms
By Adonis Byemelwa
Geita-The Permanent Voters Register in the Geita and Kagera regions is set for an update from August 5 to 11, 2024, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (NEC) Chairman, Judge (Court of Appeal) Jacobs Mwambegele. Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Geita on July 24, Judge Mwambegele highlighted the preparations underway for the second phase of the voter register update. Polling stations will operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily during this period.
In Kagera, the meeting was inaugurated by NEC Vice Chairman, Judge (Retired) Mbarouk Salim Mbarouk. He emphasized that the second phase follows the initial update round in Kigoma, Katavi, and Tabora regions, which started on July 20 and is set to conclude on July 26.
“The update in Geita and Kagera will commence on August 5 and end on August 11, with polling stations open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM,” Judge Mwambegele stated. He noted that the first round was launched in Kigoma by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and has been ongoing in Kigoma, Tabora, and Katavi.
Judge Mbarouk reassured voters that the voter ID cards issued in 2015 and 2020 remain valid for upcoming elections. He urged stakeholders to inform voters with these cards that they do not need to update their details unless changes are necessary.
“According to Section 168 of the Election Act No. 1 of 2024, voter cards issued in 2015 and 2020 by the NEC are still valid,” he affirmed.
Director of Elections Kailima Ramadhan highlighted the use of technology in the voter registration process. He encouraged voters to begin the update process using the Online Voters Registration System (OVRS) via smartphones, tablets, or computers. Voters can start by dialing 15200#, then selecting option 9 and following the prompts.
“Users must visit their chosen registration center to complete the process, including taking a photo, signing, and receiving their voter ID card,” Ramadhan explained.
The update comes as part of broader electoral reforms suggested by the Warioba Constitutional Review Commission. The Commission has called for more inclusive and transparent electoral processes, emphasizing the need for regular updates to the voters’ register to reflect population changes.
They also recommended enhancing voter education and leveraging technology to streamline registration and voting procedures. The Commission’s proposals aim to ensure that all eligible voters can participate in the electoral process, thereby strengthening the country’s democracy.
These updates are crucial as Tanzania prepares for future elections, aiming to maintain an accurate and inclusive voter register. The NEC urges all eligible voters in Geita and Kagera to participate in the update process and ensure their registration details are accurate and current.
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