The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Tanzania has declared that by-elections will be held on November 4, 2026, in the Chamwino constituency in Dodoma region and 11 wards in various local government areas. According to a statement released by INEC's Director of Elections, Ramadhani Kailima, the by-elections are necessitated by vacancies in these areas. The commission received notification from the Speaker of the National Assembly regarding a vacancy in the Chamwino constituency.
The vacancy in the Chamwino constituency arose after President Samia Suluhu Hassan appointed Deogratius John Ndejembi, the incumbent Member of Parliament for the constituency, as Deputy President of Tanzania on August 26, 2026, a move that was confirmed by the National Assembly on August 28, 2026. As a result, the constituency requires a new representative. Additionally, INEC received reports from the Minister responsible for Local Government regarding vacancies in 11 wards due to the death of eight councillors and the resignation of three others.
The by-elections will take place in 11 wards across Tanzania, specifically in Nonde ward of Mbeya City Council, Lugenge ward of Njombe Town Council, Bargish ward of Mbulu Town Council, Makole ward of Muheza District Council, Mwera ward of Pangani District Council, and Oldonyosambu ward of Ngorongoro District Council. Other wards include Igalula in Uyui District Council, Shelui in Iramba District Council, Mvumi in Kilosa District Council, Nyarero in Tarime District Council, and Ilolangulu in Mbogwe District Council.
According to the election schedule announced by INEC, nomination forms for candidates in the Chamwino constituency and the 11 wards will be available from October 7 to 13, 2026. The nomination of candidates will take place on October 13, 2026. Once nominations are complete, election campaigns will commence on October 14, 2026, and will continue until November 3, 2026, a day before the elections.
INEC has reminded political parties, candidates, and all stakeholders to adhere to the Constitution, laws, regulations, electoral ethics, procedures, guidelines, and directives issued by the commission throughout the electoral process. The commission emphasized the importance of conducting the by-elections in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
The by-elections in the Chamwino constituency and the 11 wards are crucial in ensuring that the affected areas have representation in the National Assembly and local government councils. The elections will provide an opportunity for the electorate to choose their leaders and representatives. INEC has assured the public that it is committed to conducting credible and peaceful elections.
Key stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and voters, are expected to play a significant role in the success of the by-elections. The commission's efforts to ensure a smooth electoral process will be closely monitored by various stakeholders, both locally and internationally. The outcome of the by-elections will have implications for the affected areas and the country at large.
Key points
- The by-elections will be held on November 4, 2026, in the Chamwino constituency and 11 wards across Tanzania.
- The vacancies in the Chamwino constituency and the 11 wards arose due to the appointment of the incumbent MP as Deputy President and the death or resignation of councillors.
- INEC has urged stakeholders to adhere to the Constitution, laws, and regulations during the electoral process.
Reporting sources
- INEC yatangaza tarehe uchaguzi mdogo Chamwino · habarileo.co.tz
