ZEC calls for turn out as PVR update begins in Unguja
ZANZIBAR: AS the second and final update of the Permanent Voters Register (PVR) begins in Unguja, following its completion in Pemba, the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) has urged voters to strictly adhere to legal procedures and guidelines during the registration process to avoid potential challenges.
Speaking at various stakeholders’ meetings about the voter registration update, which commenced last Saturday, ZEC Chairman Justice George Kazi noted issues faced during the initial registration phase, including delays and ineligibility of some applicants.
He said that voter registration follows legal requirements to ensure that all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote in the upcoming General Election.
The voter registration exercise is scheduled to end on March 17, 2025. “Every citizen registering in the voter roll must be a Zanzibari with valid residency in the Shehia where they are registering to ensure a smooth process for the registration officers,” stressed Justice Kazi.
He also called on the family members of deceased voters to submit the relevant documents and information to ZEC district offices or the respective Sheha’s office.
ZEC’s Director of Elections, Mr Thabit Idarous Faina, said that the second phase of new voter registration began on February 1, this year, in Micheweni District, North Pemba Region and concluded on February 13th this year, in Mkoani District, Pemba.
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Mr Faina said that this registration is a crucial step in preparing for the 2025 General Election and voters must be well-informed about the process before the election period begins.
“ZEC continues to provide mobile SMS services, allowing voters to verify their registration details using their mobile phones,” he added. Through this service, voters can confirm their registration centre, polling station and voter card status.
As of December 31st, last year, Mr Faina reported that ZEC had received 463 applications from voters requesting to transfer their polling details within different areas of Unguja and Pemba.
The government statistics recorded 10,854 registered deaths between 2021 and 2023. “ZEC also received 4,211 applications from individuals who lost their eligibility to remain in the voter register,” he said.
The commission plans to publish a list of voters who have lost eligibility or changed their registration details in accordance with Sections 19 and 31 of the Zanzibar Election Act No 4 of 2018.
