Mwanza RC stresses calm ahead of election

MWANZA: IN the run-up to the October 29 General Election, the Mwanza regional government has called upon citizens to remain calm and dismiss fears over security and safety issues during the electoral process.
The appeal was made on Tuesday by Mwanza Regional Commissioner, Mr Said Mtanda, while addressing various religious leaders during a peace conference held in the city. Mr Mtanda assured that the government will continue to fulfill its responsibility of protecting citizens and their property before, during and after the election.
“Let us remain peaceful, come out in large numbers to vote without any fear and continue to have confidence that the government is doing its work,” he said.
For his part, Mwanza Regional Sheikh, Mr Hassan Kabeke, urged residents to maintain peace and recognise the importance of voting, describing it as a constitutional right. He said peace is vital for ensuring a smooth and safe transition during and after the election, adding that voters should choose leaders who will promote development and safeguard harmony.
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Similarly, the Co-Chairperson of the Mwanza Regional Peace Committee, Mr Charles Sekelwa, reminded residents that voting is a fundamental right, urging them to study the policies of all candidates before casting their votes.
“On October 29 (next week), let us turn out in large numbers to vote and stop the practice of discouraging others from participating, which is wrong. People should also avoid acts that disrupt the voting process or interfere with other voters ‘rights,” he said.
Mr Sekelwa added that the Mwanza Regional Peace Committee has issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to continue promoting peaceful and fair election.
“We urge all citizens to exercise their constitutional right to elect the President, Members of Parliament and Councillors at all levels with love, wisdom and responsibility,” he said, adding that voters should return home peacefully after voting, avoiding violence and hate speeches. Meanwhile, former Minister, Mr Lazaro Nyalandu, called on religious leaders to remain united in promoting and safeguarding peace.
He urged them to continue praying for the nation and the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, noting that peace is the foundation of development, unity is strength and love is the key to overcoming challenges.
Mr Nyalandu also appealed to all Tanzanians to turn out in large numbers to vote on October 29, praying for God to grant wisdom, justice and honesty to all institutions involved in managing the elections.