Tanzania Police Force pledges peaceful elections

Mwanza, TANZANIA

The Tanzania Inspector General of Police (IGP), Simon Sirro, has said he will ensure this year’s general elections are conducted in the atmosphere of peace and stability.

Speaking at different times to police personnel in Tabora and Singida regions, Sirro said the police force has a big responsibility in the elections.

The general elections are slated for the end of October this year and already preparations are in full swing by the National Electoral Commission (NEC) to prepare elections ethics endorsed by stakeholders and published in the government gazette.

“We are mobilising ourselves for the elections and every one must perform his duty, we shall ensure the polls are conducted peacefully, and those few intending to cause chaos will be dealt with in accordance with the country’s laws,” he added.

IGP Sirro called upon the police not to allow anyone to threaten Tanzanians with guns.

He also congratulated the police in Tabora Region for the good work and that God will bless them for making Tabora Region continue being calm due to their good work.

“In Tanzania we want news about robbery at gun point to become past history, I went to Uganda where there is no news about guns, hence we should also reach a point and say no more,” he said.

He added: “I call on you my fellow officers that we should not have mercy on such people and that is the only way for the Police Force that now marks 100 years of its existence to ensure Tabora residents live peacefully.”

He also called on them not to bother people who abide by the laws but should be strict to those who do not want to follow the laws.

IGP remarks came only four months after Tanzania President John Magufuli assured diplomats that the 2020 General Elections will be free, fair and transparent.

After the statement, the United States of America was encouraged by President Magufuli’s assurance saying that the US welcomes an election where all the citizens and the candidates from all parties are able to gather peacefully, express their opinions and campaign on an equal basis.

“We are encouraged by President Magufuli's January 21 assurances that the 2020 elections will be free, fair and transparent and by his invitation to international election observers," said part of the statement.