editor
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged district commissioners (DCs), district executive directors (DEDs), and other government officials planning to contest in the 2025 General Election to notify the government in advance.
She warned that failure to do so could lead to disqualification from the process and loss of their current positions.
Speaking at the 39th annual general meeting in Dodoma, President Samia emphasized the importance of planning to prevent disruptions in local government administration. She noted that some officials were eager to transition from government roles to elected positions but stressed that the process must be handled in an orderly manner.
“There are some district executive directors and commissioners who want to return to the people. I instructed the Chief Secretary to send guidelines to local governments, and I believe the minister [Mohamed Mchengerwa – Regional Administration and Local Government] has received them. Anyone intending to contest must notify us early,” she stated.
President Samia explained that early notification would allow the government to prepare replacements, ensuring that administrative responsibilities are not neglected. She pointed out that sudden resignations during the nomination process could create leadership gaps that would affect public service delivery.
“If we are informed early enough, we can begin the process of filling these positions by providing guidelines and training to prepare individuals for the election,” she said.
The President made it clear that those who fail to declare their intentions on time will face consequences. “If you fail to notify us in advance and later come to collect nomination forms, you will be disqualified from the process and won’t return to your position,” she warned.
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She reassured officials that those who communicate their plans in time will have the opportunity to pursue their ambitions without jeopardizing their careers. “If you inform us early, you will be given the opportunity to try, and even if you don’t succeed, we will still appreciate your efforts. But if you wait until the last minute, you will lose everything,” she cautioned.
This directive aligns with President Samia’s broader efforts to maintain discipline and order within the government. She has previously called for adherence to rules and discouraged premature election campaigns within the ruling party, emphasizing the importance of unity and structured transitions.
With the 2025 elections approaching, her message serves as a reminder to public servants that their political aspirations must be balanced with their responsibilities to the nation. The government is determined to ensure a smooth transition that upholds public trust and prevents disruptions in service delivery.
