Ahead of the 2020 General Elections in the United Republic of Tanzania on 28 October, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC has issued a statement.

Speaking on the election the Secretary-General said:

“I call upon all electoral officials, political leaders and their supporters to play their part in ensuring a peaceful, transparent and inclusive process and hope that positive lessons learnt from previous elections will inform the conduct of this year’s poll and ensure a credible and successful election for Tanzania and its people.

“I wish the country well for Election Day and reaffirm the Commonwealth’s abiding support for the people of Tanzania.

“The Commonwealth and Tanzania have been collaborating closely in promoting our shared values of democracy and development and the manner in which the forthcoming General Election will be held is of much interest to the Commonwealth.

“The Commonwealth Charter clearly provides that all citizens have the inalienable right to participate in democratic processes, especially credible elections, to shape their society.”

The Secretary-General added:

“I encourage both the National and Zanzibar Electoral Commissions to manage all aspects of the electoral process with the transparency, inclusivity and integrity required for a successful election.

“I call on political leaders and parties to display genuine willingness to promote peace, the electorate to show confidence in the democratic process and to participate in it, and for everyone to shun violence and respect the rule of law.

“The elections present a further opportunity for Tanzania to advance its developmental gains and aspirations, by consolidating its international, regional and national commitments to democratic principles.

“Finally, I recall the Commonwealth’s historical support in assisting the facilitation of dialogue in Zanzibar to promote unity. I call on all stakeholders in the electoral process in every part of the country to show restraint and demonstrate tolerance, especially in the period on and beyond Election Day. Any grievances should be pursued through prescribed legal channels.”