INEC demands merit, neutrality in 2025 polls

Morogoro. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairperson, Justice Jacobs Mwambegele, has directed election supervisors to deploy competent and qualified polling station staff who fully understand their duties.

The INEC boss issued the directives on Monday, July 15, 2025, in Morogoro during the opening of a three-day training session for regional election coordinators, constituency election supervisors, procurement officers, information and communication technology (ICT) personnel, and other electoral officials from the Morogoro, Dodoma, and Singida regions.

He emphasised the importance of merit-based recruitment, urging supervisors to reject favouritism and nepotism, and stressing that staff selection must be based on qualifications and professional ethics.

Judge Mwambegele also instructed supervisors to involve all political parties in the electoral process within their respective areas and to ensure early planning and clear identification of polling centres.

This, he added, would give political parties enough time to prepare and deploy their agents effectively.

“Maintain constant communication with the Commission whenever challenges arise during the electoral period. On polling day, ensure that voting stations open promptly at 7:00 a.m. without delay,” he said.

The INEC chair reminded participants that elections are not a one-day event but a process, stressing that strict compliance with electoral laws and regulations is essential for ensuring free and fair elections and reducing disputes.

He further urged election officials to recognise the public trust conferred upon them through their appointments and to discharge their duties with confidence, impartiality, and fidelity to the Constitution and electoral laws—particularly in light of the significant legal reforms introduced for the 2025 General Election.

“This is not just another routine assignment. You are duty-bound to uphold the law and act with professionalism and neutrality throughout the entire process,” he added.

INEC Director General Ramadhani Kailima, who also addressed participants, said the training programme comprised 12 sessions and would serve as a platform for knowledge-sharing and best practice exchange among officials.

“This training is designed to equip supervisors with the tools needed to address challenges that may emerge before, during, and after the elections,” said Mr Kailima.

Meanwhile, Mvomero Constituency election supervisor Mary Kayowa expressed confidence in the training’s impact on ensuring a free and credible election.

She said that by enhancing their understanding of electoral laws and procedures, officials would be better placed to administer the election professionally and transparently.

“This training will empower us to safeguard every citizen’s right to vote and to ensure that the electoral process is conducted with integrity, free from irregularities and complaints,” said Ms Kayowa.