Joseph Isangura
The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced that by-elections for the Peramiho parliamentary seat and the Shiwinga ward councillor position will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, marking an important moment in Tanzania’s electoral calendar.
In a statement released in Dodoma, the commission said the by-elections were necessitated by the deaths of the sitting Member of Parliament and an appointed councillor, which created vacancies in the two electoral areas. The announcement brings clarity to voters and political stakeholders who have been awaiting official guidance on the next steps following the loss of the leaders.
According to the commission, the vacancy in Peramiho Constituency, located in Songea District Council within the Ruvuma Region, arose after the death of the area’s Member of Parliament, Jenista Joakim Mhagama, who passed away on December 11, 2025. The commission said it formally received notification of the vacancy from the Speaker of the National Assembly in line with the legal provisions governing elections in the country.
The electoral body also confirmed that it received a separate report concerning the Shiwinga ward councillor position in Mbozi District Council, Songwe Region. The vacancy followed the death of Lusekelo Mwalukomo, who had been serving as an appointed councillor. The report was submitted by the relevant political authority in accordance with the law.
The commission explained that the by-elections would be conducted under the framework of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Government Elections Act, which outlines procedures for filling vacant elective and appointive positions. Officials emphasized that adherence to the legal framework is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
As part of the election timetable, the commission announced that nomination forms for candidates seeking to contest the two positions will be issued from January 29 to February 4, 2026. The official nomination of candidates is scheduled to take place on February 4, paving the way for the campaign period.
Campaigning is set to begin on February 5 and will run until February 25, one day before voters head to the polls. During this period, candidates are expected to present their agendas to the electorate while complying with all electoral laws and guidelines. The commission noted that campaigns should be conducted peacefully and responsibly, with respect for democratic principles.
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In its statement, the commission reminded political parties, candidates, and all stakeholders to strictly observe the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, electoral laws, regulations, and the Electoral Code of Conduct. It stressed that cooperation among all parties involved is critical to ensuring free, fair, and credible by-elections.
Political analysts say the upcoming polls, though limited in scope, will be closely watched as a test of local political dynamics and public sentiment. By-elections in Tanzania often attract national attention, particularly when they involve parliamentary seats, as they can offer insights into shifting political trends ahead of future general elections.
For residents of Peramiho and Shiwinga ward, the by-elections present an opportunity to choose new representatives who will advance local development priorities and contribute to national legislative and governance processes. The commission has assured voters that all necessary preparations will be made to guarantee a transparent and orderly exercise.
As Tanzania continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the conduct of these by-elections will be another measure of the country’s commitment to constitutional governance and the rule of law under the oversight of the National Electoral Commission. Observers say the smooth management of the process will reinforce public confidence in Tanzania’s electoral system and democratic traditions.
