Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE countdown to Tanzania’s October General Election has intensified debates about democracy, peace and justice. At the centre of this critical national process is the Tanzania Police Force, whose role cannot be overstated.
As voters prepare to head to polling stations, the assurance of safety, impartiality and order is not just desirable, it is essential for the credibility of the entire electoral process.
Recently, Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) Jumanne Muliro, emphasised the Force’s commitment to uphold peace and democracy.
Speaking at a Dialogue on Peace, Justice and Democracy organised by the Tanzania Peace and Reconciliatory Community (JMAT) at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre, he underlined the Police Force’s responsibility to guarantee an environment where every citizen can exercise their constitutional right to vote without intimidation or fear.
His remarks provide an opportunity to reflect more deeply on why the police remain a central pillar in ensuring this year’s general election is peaceful, credible and reflective of the people’s will.
The foundation of any democratic election lies in the assurance that citizens can participate without fear of violence or intimidation.
Elections, particularly in developing democracies, often carry the risk of disputes, political tensions, and unrest. In such situations, the police are not merely enforcers of the law but custodians of the nation’s peace.
SACP Muliro’s pledge that “everyone has the legal right to participate without fear” highlights the Force’s obligation to create an enabling environment.
This means guaranteeing that no voter is threatened on their way to a polling station, no group is barred from participating, and no citizen feels excluded on account of gender, political affiliation, or social standing.
In past elections across Africa, lapses in security have sometimes led to tragic consequences—voter apathy, violence, or contested results.
Tanzania, known for its long tradition of peace, must avoid such pitfalls. The police, therefore, stand as the shield protecting both the process and the people.
One often overlooked but critical role of the police is securing voting materials—from ballot papers to boxes and sensitive election equipment.
Electoral credibility hinges not only on what happens in polling stations but also on what occurs before ballots are cast and after votes are counted.
Commander Muliro stressed that officers will safeguard voting materials during transport and counting, and will “monitor ballot boxes to prevent tampering.”
This commitment is vital, especially in an era when allegations of ballot stuffing or manipulation can quickly ignite mistrust.
By ensuring strict custody of electoral materials, the police help build confidence in the process, reducing suspicions of foul play. For any law enforcement institution, neutrality during elections is a litmus test of professionalism.
In Tanzania, where political pluralism guarantees diverse opinions and heated competition, impartial policing is key to preserving legitimacy.
SACP Muliro openly acknowledged this challenge, promising that the Force will execute its duties with “a high degree of professionalism” while respecting civil and human rights. This statement carries weight.
Elections are not merely about casting ballots; they are about upholding constitutional freedoms freedom of assembly, freedom of speech, and freedom to campaign without harassment. Impartial enforcement of law strengthens democracy by ensuring a level playing field for all actors.
Tensions may flare at polling centres, disputes may arise during counting, and misinformation may spark unrest.
SACP Muliro assured stakeholders that the Force is prepared to “address any urgent issues that might arise” in order to enable smooth voting.
This readiness is crucial. A rapid, measured, and lawful response to emergencies prevents isolated incidents from escalating into widespread chaos.
By swiftly defusing potential flashpoints, the police help maintain calm and reinforce voter confidence. The role of police in elections goes beyond enforcement; it extends to shaping a culture of peace.
By standing as visible guardians of order, officers provide psychological reassurance to citizens that they can participate without fear.
The JMAT Chairperson, Sheikh Alhad Mussa Salum, captured this essence when he reminded institutions such as the Police Force, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the judiciary to carry out their duties “professionally and diligently” in order to sustain public trust.
Trust, once broken, is difficult to rebuild. But through consistent professionalism, the police can inspire citizens to view elections not as a moment of division, but as a collective act of patriotism.
The challenge for the police lies in striking a delicate balance being firm enough to quell disruptions while at the same time respecting constitutional rights.
Heavy-handedness, excessive force, or arbitrary arrests during political gatherings can taint perceptions of fairness.
On the other hand, tolerance of lawlessness can encourage violence and undermine order. Muliro’s remarks signal awareness of this balance.
By pledging to respect rights while firmly enforcing the law, the Police Force acknowledges the dual responsibility of protecting both peace and freedom. Tanzania’s elections have generally been peaceful compared to other countries in the region.
However, history has shown that electoral seasons are sensitive, with heightened emotions and political contestation.
The police, therefore, must draw lessons from past challenges whether it is managing large rallies, addressing misinformation, or handling postelection disputes.
Building on these lessons will allow the Force to refine its strategies, adopt modern technologies for surveillance and communication, and work closely with electoral bodies, civil society, and local communities to prevent conflicts.
Ultimately, the role of the police in this year’s general election is not confined to law enforcement.
It is about safeguarding the very essence of democracy, allowing citizens to freely choose their leaders, resolving disputes through ballots rather than violence, and demonstrating to the world that Tanzania remains a beacon of peace and stability.
The global community watches national elections closely, and the conduct of law enforcement is a key indicator of democratic maturity.
A professional, impartial, and rights-conscious police service will reinforce Tanzania’s reputation as a peaceful democracy.
As Tanzania edges closer to the October General Election, the role of the Police Force stands at the heart of ensuring a credible process.
From securing polling stations and electoral materials to protecting rights and addressing emergencies, their responsibilities are vast and consequential.
The message from SACP Jumanne Muliro is clear: the Force is committed to impartiality, professionalism, and respect for human rights.
Citizens, political parties, and stakeholders must, in turn, support and cooperate with the police to ensure peace prevails.
In the words of the JMAT Chairperson, elections are not simply about competition they are about patriotism and collective responsibility.
By fulfilling their mandate with diligence, the police will not only secure the 2025 polls but also strengthen Tanzania’s democratic foundations for generations to come.
For More News And Analysis About Tanzania Follow Africa-Press
