The United Republic of Tanzania, through the National Electoral Commission (NEC), continues to implement preparations for the upcoming General Election in line with established laws and regulations. As part of these crucial preparations, the Returning Officer for Itigi Constituency, under the Itigi District Council, has officially announced a call for interviews for applicants who expressed interest in serving as Polling Station Officials. This recruitment and vetting exercise is a significant step in ensuring the smooth conduct of the elections, guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and integrity throughout the electoral process.
The announcement is made in accordance with Section 6 (6) of The Election of President, Members of Parliament and Councilors Act No. 1 of 2024, as well as Regulation 11 of The Election of President, Members of Parliament and Councilors Regulations of 2025. These legal provisions empower the Returning Officer to carry out the process of verifying and appointing polling station staff who will play a direct role in managing the election at the grassroots level. The process ensures that individuals appointed to serve are competent, impartial, and capable of upholding the principles of free and fair elections.
According to the Returning Officer’s notice, interviews are scheduled to take place on Friday, 3rd October 2025, starting from 1:30 AM. This unusual but deliberate scheduling underscores the importance of efficiency, early preparation, and the tight timelines that govern electoral processes. It also reflects the commitment of the electoral bodies to start on time, ensuring that the large number of applicants can be accommodated and evaluated within the day. Applicants are therefore urged to report to their assigned venues punctually to avoid disqualification.
The interviews will be conducted across several key locations to make the process more accessible for applicants and to cater to the wide geographical coverage of the Itigi Constituency. The venues include:
- The Office of the Returning Officer located within the Itigi District Council Building.
- Mitundu Ward Office.
- Mwamagembe Ward Office.
- Kintanula Village Office.
- Rungwa Ward Office.
These multiple venues have been strategically chosen to bring services closer to the applicants, reduce congestion, and facilitate a smooth flow of activities. Each applicant has been directed to report to the respective venue as indicated in the official list, which contains the names of all shortlisted individuals.
The recruitment is focused on filling vital roles within polling stations. These include: Presiding Officers, Deputy Presiding Officers, Polling Station Clerks, and Polling Day Ushers. Each of these positions carries distinct responsibilities. Presiding Officers and their deputies are tasked with overall supervision of polling stations, ensuring that procedures are followed correctly and that all election materials are used appropriately. Polling Station Clerks assist in managing voters, checking registers, issuing ballot papers, and recording details accurately. Ushers play a crucial role in guiding voters, maintaining order, and ensuring that the voting process flows efficiently. Together, these officials form the backbone of election day operations.
Applicants invited for the interviews are reminded that this is a highly competitive and significant process. The Returning Officer and the electoral management team will be assessing not only academic and professional qualifications but also personal integrity, impartiality, and commitment to the democratic process. Successful candidates will be entrusted with safeguarding the credibility of the General Election within their respective polling stations.
Furthermore, the National Electoral Commission emphasizes the importance of adherence to ethical conduct during both the interview and subsequent electoral duties. Polling Station Officials are expected to remain non-partisan, avoid any form of corruption or favoritism, and conduct their duties in a manner that upholds public trust. The credibility of the election rests not only on the procedures but also on the integrity and professionalism of those executing them.
In conclusion, the call for interviews by the Returning Officer of Itigi Constituency reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and promote citizen participation in governance. It is a call to service for all shortlisted applicants—an opportunity to contribute to shaping Tanzania’s democratic future. The NEC and the Returning Officer encourage all invited candidates to prepare adequately, arrive on time at their designated venues, and participate fully in the interview process. This milestone is not just about securing temporary employment but about being part of a historic national exercise that ensures the voice of every Tanzanian is heard and respected through the ballot box.