[PRESSWIRE] Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – 2026-04-09 — Mohamed Chande Othman, chair of Tanzania’s Commission of Inquiry into the events surrounding the 29 October 2025 general election, has reaffirmed the body’s commitment to delivering a thorough, credible and inclusive report, following a 21 day extension granted to complete its work.
The extension approved through an official government notice moves the submission deadline to 24 April and reflects what officials describe as a careful and responsible approach to a complex national process.
Justice Othman said the decision was driven by four key factors: the continued inflow of evidence, the need for expert scientific analysis, the scale of material under review and the preparation of a bilingual report in both Kiswahili and English.
Rather than signalling delays, the extension underscores the Commission’s openness and its determination to ensure that all voices are heard.
“We cannot turn away witnesses who are still coming forward with relevant evidence,” he said, highlighting the Commission’s inclusive and participatory approach.
The inquiry has drawn submissions from a wide cross-section of Tanzanian society, including youth groups, small-scale traders, transport operators and academic institutions demonstrating broad public engagement and confidence in the process.
In a further sign of its comprehensive mandate, the Commission expanded its fieldwork from an initial six regions to 11 regions and 22 districts, ensuring a more representative understanding of the situation across the country. It also visited areas such as Zanzibar and Kilimanjaro regions that remained peaceful to draw lessons on reconciliation and social cohesion.
Justice Othman emphasised that the Commission operates independently, guided by law and professional standards, and free from external influence.
“The Commission is fully self-governing… we are simply completing our work,” he said, reinforcing its institutional credibility.
The government’s support for the extension has been widely interpreted as a demonstration of its commitment to due process, transparency and accountability allowing the Commission the time and space required to carry out its mandate effectively.
The inclusion of scientific experts to verify complex evidence, including digital and satellite material, further reflects a modern, evidence-based approach aligned with international best practice.
Importantly, the Commission has adopted procedures that encourage voluntary participation, helping to build trust among citizens while ensuring that contributions are made freely and responsibly.
Justice Othman acknowledged both national and international interest in the inquiry, noting that expectations remain high. He expressed confidence that the final report will not only address the events in question but also contribute to long-term national unity and healing.
“We want the victims… to see themselves reflected in the report. After the findings, we want to move forward as a nation,” he said.
With its final report set to be released later this month, the Commission’s work is increasingly seen as a key milestone in Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic governance, institutional accountability and social cohesion.
ENDS….
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