AU calls for peaceful poll in Tanzania

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The African Union Commission President, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has called for a peaceful vote in Tanzania, ahead of Wednesday's Presidential elections.

The appeal came after the arrest of opposition Presidential candidate, Maalim Seif Sharif, who is running on an opposition Presidential ticket in Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous.

"As the United Republic of Tanzania gears up to hold General Elections on 28 October, 2020, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat, calls for peaceful, inclusive and credible polls," the AUC said in a statement on Tuesday.

The AU Commission Chairperson called on all stakeholders, political parties and their supporters to participate in the voting process peacefully and to refrain from any acts of violence.

He further urged the authorities to ensure a conducive environment to enable citizens to cast their votes in a safe and peaceful manner.

At least three people were shot dead on Monday in Pemba, Zanzibar, the opposition ACT Wazalendo, said Tuesday.

According to the opposition party, Aisha Hajji Hassan, 33, Yussuf Shaame Muhiddin, 27, Kombo Hamad Saluum, also known as Kipigi, were shot and killed by unidentified gunmen.

Nine others were also wounded during the violence.

The opposition party accused the Police of being behind the latest violence.

However, Police have denied any involvement in the violence.

"The Chairperson recalls the commendable journey that the United Republic of Tanzania has traversed thus far towards building democratic governance and sustaining peace, and urges that the 28 October 2020 General Elections offer a renewed opportunity to deepen democracy and peace in the country," the AUC said in the statement.

The African Union has deployed an Elections Experts Mission to Tanzania from 22 October to 3 November, 2020, led by Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria.

-0- PANA AO/VAO 27Oct2020