Dar es Salaam: The commission investigating breaches of peace during and after Tanzania’s October 2025 General Election has been granted an additional 21 days to complete its work, pushing the new deadline to April 24, 2026.
According to a Government Gazette notice dated April 4, the extension was approved following a formal request by the commission to allow it to finalize key stages of its inquiry. The notice was signed by the commission’s chairperson, retired Chief Justice Mohammed Chande Othman.
The Gazette states that the extension will enable the commission to complete its analysis of evidence, information, and views collected during the inquiry. It will also allow forensic experts additional time to examine newly submitted exhibits.
“The appointing authority has approved the request for additional time for the Commission investigating incidents of breach of peace during and after the October 2025 General Election and has therefore granted it a further twenty-one (21) days to complete its work on or before April 24, 2026,” the statement reads.
The additional period will further allow the commission to finalize preparation of its report for submission to the President, as well as undertake translation of the document.
The commission, which began executing its mandate on November 20, 2025, was initially expected to conclude its work within 90 days. However, the timeline had earlier been extended, with the commission directed to submit its findings by April 3, 2026.
Officials say the extension became necessary after a higher-than-expected number of citizens came forward to provide testimonies, information, and views regarding incidents linked to the election period.
As a result, the commission continued receiving additional evidence and submissions from members of the public and other stakeholders, making it difficult to conclude its work within the previously extended timeframe.
The commission has expressed appreciation to citizens and stakeholders who have cooperated throughout the investigation, including those who appeared before it, submitted written statements, or shared information through various communication channels.
The inquiry is expected to play a critical role in addressing concerns over electoral-related violence and strengthening public confidence in governance and accountability mechanisms.
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