The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Tanzania has announced that it will hold a parliamentary by-election in the Chamwino Constituency of Dodoma Region on November 4, 2026. This decision was made following the vacancy created in the parliamentary seat after President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan appointed the former Member of Parliament, Deogratius Ndejembi, as Vice-President on August 26, 2026. The appointment was subsequently confirmed by Parliament on August 28, 2026.
According to a statement released by INEC's Director of Elections, Ramadhani Kailima, the commission received a notification from the Speaker of the National Assembly regarding the vacant parliamentary seat in Chamwino Constituency. In addition to the parliamentary by-election, the commission also announced councilors' by-elections in 11 wards across Mainland Tanzania. These by-elections are necessary due to vacancies created by the deaths of eight councilors and the resignation of three others.
The wards where councilors' by-elections will be held include Nonde in Mbeya City Council, Lugenge in Njombe Town Council, Bargish in Mbulu Town Council, Makole in Muheza District Council, Mwera in Pangani District Council, and Oldonyosambu in Ngorongoro District Council. Others are 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.
INEC has scheduled the issuance of nomination forms for parliamentary candidates in Chamwino and councilor candidates in the 11 wards from October 7 to 13, 2026. The nomination exercise will take place on October 13, 2026, followed by election campaigns from October 14 to November 3, 2026. The commission reminds political parties, candidates, and other election stakeholders to adhere to the Constitution, laws, regulations, electoral ethics, procedures, guidelines, and directives issued by the commission throughout the election process.
The by-elections in Chamwino Constituency and the 11 wards are crucial in filling the vacancies and ensuring that the affected areas have representation in the National Assembly and local councils. INEC's decision to conduct these by-elections on November 4, 2026, provides a timeline for political parties and candidates to prepare and participate in the electoral process.
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan's appointment of Deogratius Ndejembi as Vice-President led to the vacancy in the Chamwino parliamentary seat. This move is part of her efforts to reorganize and strengthen her administration. The by-elections will provide an opportunity for the people of Chamwino Constituency to elect a new representative to the National Assembly.
Key stakeholders, including political parties and candidates, are expected to play a significant role in the by-elections. The commission's emphasis on adherence to electoral guidelines and directives is crucial in ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
Key points
- The by-elections will be held on November 4, 2026.
- The parliamentary by-election in Chamwino Constituency is necessary following the appointment of Deogratius Ndejembi as Vice-President.
- Councilors' by-elections will be held in 11 wards across Mainland Tanzania due to vacancies created by deaths and resignations.
