MWE Correspondent
In a continued effort to strengthen democratic participation, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has opened the preliminary voter register for public verification in 15 regions across Tanzania.
The weeklong exercise, which began on May 1 and runs through May 7, is part of the second phase of updating the Permanent Voter Register (PVR).
The move allows citizens to confirm or correct their voter details, ensuring that they are eligible to participate in future elections. According to INEC’s Director of Elections, Ramadhani Kailima, this step is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the country’s electoral process.
“We urge every registered voter, even those who believe their information is accurate, to take a moment and verify their details,” Kailima said in a statement. “This process is not only about ensuring correct names and addresses, but also about defending your right to vote.”
Verification is being conducted at designated centers — the same venues used during the first phase of the voter registration update. However, INEC has also embraced digital technology, giving Tanzanians the option to verify their information electronically. Citizens can check their records by dialing 15200#, calling the toll-free line 0800 112 100, or visiting the commission’s official website at www.inec.go.tz.
Should corrections be needed, voters are advised to visit their ward offices to make the necessary updates. INEC has also stated that one person can verify the records of their entire household, streamlining the process for families.
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Moreover, the commission has enabled a mechanism for raising objections against individuals who may have been wrongly included in the register. These objections can be filed at the verification centers, which remain open throughout the verification period.
This latest update is part of Tanzania’s broader mission to modernize and secure its electoral system. Earlier this year, INEC introduced an upgraded biometric voter registration system that is lighter, faster, and more efficient. The new equipment connects directly to the National Identification Authority (NIDA), allowing for better cross-verification of identities.
In Dar es Salaam alone, INEC expects to register over 643,000 new voters, an 18% rise from previous figures. The capital has seen the setup of more than 1,700 registration and update centers to accommodate the growing number of voters.
With the 2025 general election cycle approaching, INEC is calling on all eligible citizens to take full advantage of this verification exercise — a step that, while small, plays a vital role in protecting the foundation of democracy.
