By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – The High Court of Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam Registry convenes today, August 28, 2024, to hear a pivotal case challenging the Ministry of State in the President’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government) (PO-RALG)’s oversight of the 2024 local government elections.
Three Tanzanian citizens, Bob Wangwe, Bubelwa Kaiza, and Dr. Ananilea Nkya, filed the suit, arguing that PO-RALG’s involvement contravenes the Constitution and the Independent National Electoral Commission Act of 2024.
According to the plaintiffs, the Constitution mandates the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to oversee elections exclusively.
PO-RALG’s role undermines the democratic process’s integrity and fairness.
“The Constitution unequivocally states that ultimate authority rests with the people,” emphasized Mr. Wangwe. “PO-RALG’s oversight jeopardizes transparency and accountability.”
Judge Wilfred Dyansobera will preside over the hearing, scheduled for 2:00 PM. The plaintiffs urge citizens to attend, stressing the importance of governmental accountability.
Dr. Nkya, chairperson of the Tanzania Constitution Forum, underscored the case’s significance. “This lawsuit safeguards our constitutional rights and ensures local governance accountability.”
The case also contests PO-RALG’s recent regulations, specifically Government Notices 571, 572, 573, and 574, which the plaintiffs claim violate Articles 74, 75, and 78 of the Tanzanian Constitution.
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The outcome will impact the 2024 local government elections, encompassing 12,000 villages, 4,263 sub-wards, and 64,361 hamlets across 184 councils.
“The future of our local governance hangs in the balance,” warned Mr. Kaiza. “We cannot afford unaccountable leaders.”
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