editor
Tanzania opposition party — ACT Wazalendo has submitted a comprehensive set of recommendations seeking to overhaul the country’s electoral laws.
The country’s Political Parties Act and the National Elections Act are all set for amendment and the stakeholder proposes reforms, spanning various facets of the electoral process that it (ACT Wazalendo) suggest will enhance transparency, strengthen the independence of the Electoral Commission, and foster a more inclusive democratic environment.
The centerpiece of ACT-Wazalendo’s proposals is a revision to the appointment process of the Electoral Commission’s leadership.
“ACT- Wazalendo advocates for a competitive appointment process of the Chair and Vice-Chair including interviews in which the President will pick the most qualified candidate,” read part of the recommendation detailing that such change would eliminate potential biases and streamline the appointment procedure.
Moreover, ACT-Wazalendo recommends expanding the qualifications for Electoral Commission members. The proposed amendments include a stipulation that members should not be affiliated with any political party, aligning with constitutional provisions aimed at maintaining the impartiality of election officials.
In a bid to fortify the autonomy of the Electoral Commission, the opposition party suggests altering the funding mechanism. They propose that financial resources for the Commission’s operations be directly sourced from the Consolidated Fund, a move intended to bolster financial stability and independence.
The proposed reforms also extend to the appointment of the Director of Elections, with ACT-Wazalendo advocating for a more transparent process. They propose that the President selects the Director from a list of three candidates provided by the Electoral Commission, emphasizing the need for openness in this crucial role.
Local government elections find a place in ACT-Wazalendo’s recommendations, with the party suggesting their inclusion in the existing election laws. This move, aimed at consolidating election processes, signifies a broader strategy to streamline and harmonize electoral procedures for enhanced efficiency.
In response to concerns about the appeal process, the opposition party suggests amendments to several sections, advocating for candidates dissatisfied with the Electoral Commission’s decisions to appeal to the High Court. This proposed change underscores the importance of a fair and just electoral process, ensuring that candidates have a legal recourse in case of disputes.
As the proposed reforms cover a wide spectrum of electoral laws, including the allocation of state funds to political parties, they are expected to ignite intense debates within the Tanzanian political landscape. ACT-Wazalendo hopes that these recommendations will not only contribute to the evolution of a fair and transparent electoral system but also mark a significant step towards reinforcing democratic practices in Tanzania.
