Campaigns for the November 27, 2024 civic elections in Arusha region kicked off formally last Wednesday with candidates selling their agendas to woo voters. With less than four days remaining before polling day, candidates from various political parties are working tirelessly to woo the electorate. The voting day has been declared a national public holiday. The Arusha City Local Government Elections Supervisor, Mr John Kayombo, confirmed that the campaign period will run daily from 8am to 6pm until November 26, 2024. This marks a crucial opportunity for candidates to present their manifestos and connect with citizens in villages and streets across the region. Arusha residents are currently witnessing colourful rallies, vibrant banners and loudspeakers echoing promises of improved infrastructure, education and health services. Observers note that this election is critical for addressing pressing local issues and setting the tone for broader political landscape in the region. As the campaign heat rises, voters are urged to engage constructively and prepare to exercise their democratic right on polling day. The city has 617,631 people, according to the 2022 census. Statistics updated in 2021 show that the city and Arusha region’s six districts have 1,009,292 registered voters. The civic polls will see the election of hamlet chairpersons and five committee members, at least two of whom must be women to ensure gender balance per the election rules.
