AS Tanzania prepares for its general elections scheduled for next year, the political landscape is becoming increasingly charged with concerns over corruption.
Vice-President Philip Mpango has publicly addressed these issues, underscoring the need for vigilance against unethical candidates who may attempt to sway voters using illicit funds. He made the remarks during the opening of the annual General Assembly of the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) in Arusha.
It is self-evident that leaders elected through corruption not only fail to condemn corruption but also cannot address the problem facing the people. Election marred by corruption, compromises the fairness, distorts public policy and erodes trust in the democratic system itself.
The impact of graft on elections extends far beyond financial fraud. it can alter the course of nations, influence public opinion and contribute to political instability. One of the most obvious ways in which graft impacts elections is by distorting the allocation of resources.
Political candidates and parties embroiled in corruption may use illicit funds to sway public opinion through bribery, vote-buying, or media manipulation.
This creates an uneven playing field, making it difficult for voters to make informed decisions based on policy and leadership qualities alone. Beyond the election itself, the long-term effects of graft are deeply damaging. Elected officials who owe their positions to corrupt practices are less likely to act in the public’s interest.
Instead of making decisions based on the welfare of the population, they may prioritise their personal or party interests, perpetuating the cycle of corruption.
Over time, this can lead to a loss of faith in the political system and reduced voter participation, further exacerbating the democratic deficit. The PCCB must therefore intensify effort in investigating and prosecuting corrupt activities.
Besides, Political parties should be encouraged to disclose their funding sources and engage in honest dialogue with the public. Citizens, too, must be vigilant, demanding accountability from their elected officials and using their voices to advocate for reforms that promote fair elections.
Corruption is not just a nuisance in elections. It is a threat to the very foundation of democracy. It undermines the principles of fairness, equality and transparency and weakens the public’s faith in the political system.
