With the general election set to be held on October 29, campaign rallies of Tanzanian parties have come to an end, with economic issues dominating the agenda.
Over the past two months, presidential candidates have toured mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, seeking support from voters. A record 37 million people across the East African's second-largest economy are expected to cast their ballots in this year's election. With 272 parliamentary and nearly 4,000 ward seats up for contest, officials say preparations are complete.
"Voting will take place in more than 97,000 polling stations on the mainland and just over 2,500 in Zanzibar," said Judge Jacobs Mwambegele, chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Tanzania.
Incumbent Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the country's first female head of state, is seeking a second term. Her campaign has focused on strengthening the economy and expanding access to public services. Observers say she remains the leading contender.
"Our vision is inclusive development, ensuring that every Tanzanian benefits. Together we will work so that essential services like food, water, education, health and electricity reach everyone," said Hassan to her supporters at a rally.
The president faces rivals from 16 political parties, although the main opposition party, Chadema, has opted out of the race. The party is demanding a new constitution before it will participate in future elections -- a reform that the government says it intends to implement within the next five years.
Other parties contesting the election are focusing their messages on economic growth and social equity.
"Our manifesto wants us to ensure that the nation's resources are used fairly so that all citizens benefit, regardless of their economic background," said Salum Mwalimu, presidential candidate for the Chauma Party.
In Zanzibar, which forms part of the United Republic of Tanzania, voters will also elect their own president. The current president, Hussein Ali Mwinyi of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), is running for another term and is widely viewed as the front-runner among the 10 candidates.
General election campaigns in Tanzania come to end
