Joseph Isangura
The atmosphere was calm, reflective, and filled with optimism a day when citizens exercised one of democracy’s most powerful rights: the right to vote.
At the Sokoine Market polling centre in Longuo B Ward, Moshi Municipal Council, Grace Marealle couldn’t hide her satisfaction. “Everything is peaceful and well-organised,” she said after casting her ballot. “You can feel the unity and respect among everyone here.”
In the same region, Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner Nurdin Babu was among the early voters. His message to residents was clear: “Let’s come out in numbers and fulfil our constitutional duty.” His words reflected the sense of civic pride shared across Tanzania as people embraced the peaceful process.
In Dodoma, the nation’s administrative capital, Balozi Dr. Moses Kusiluka, the Chief Secretary, voted in the Kilimani area. He commended the election officials for their efficiency and encouraged citizens not to take their right to vote for granted. “Every ballot matters,” he said, before leaving the polling station.
In Mbeya Region, Tulia Ackson, the parliamentary candidate for Uyole constituency, called on residents to show up in large numbers. “Today isn’t about politics — it’s about participation,” she remarked shortly after voting.
Meanwhile, in Zanzibar, presidential candidate Dr. Hussein Mwinyi cast his ballot at the Uhuru Kariakoo Children’s Playground Centre in Unguja. On the mainland, Majalio Kyara, the presidential hopeful from the Sauti ya Umma (SAU) party, voted at Mbuyuni Changanyikeni in Dar es Salaam. Both candidates expressed satisfaction with the smooth proceedings and urged Tanzanians to maintain peace throughout the day.
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Across the country — from Chamwino Ikulu in Dodoma to coastal and island regions — polling stations saw long but patient queues. Citizens chatted quietly, sharing bottled water under umbrellas as they waited for their turn. Many described the process as orderly and respectful.
The Tanzania Police Force, through spokesperson David Misime, assured the nation that the security situation remained stable and that officers were primarily present to ensure order and safety. “Our people should come out freely,” he said. “The environment is safe for everyone.”
As the afternoon sun dipped, voters continued to stream in. At some centres, children waved small flags while elders nodded approvingly, remembering how far the nation has come since its first elections decades ago.
This peaceful participation reflects not just political will but also Tanzania’s long-standing commitment to harmony and democracy — a principle deeply rooted since the era of Julius Nyerere, the country’s founding father.
