Parliament names three for EALA seats

DODOMA: PARLIAMENT has announced three candidates for the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) seats ahead of a by-election scheduled for May 4, 2026.

The three candidates are seeking to fill vacancies left by former EALA members Mr James Millya, Dr Ng’waru Maghembe and Ms Angela Kizigha, who vacated their positions after being elected or appointed as Members of Parliament.

Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr Baraka Leonard, named the candidates as Ms Fatuma Kange, Mr Cosato Chumi and Mr Kambarage Wasira. He said that after reviewing the qualifications and criteria stipulated under the relevant laws, he was satisfied that all three candidates meet the requirements to contest for the positions.

Mr Leonard further said that the by-election is being conducted in accordance with Rule 20 of the National Assembly Standing Orders, 2025, which provides for the filling of vacant seats.

“Mr Millya and Dr Maghembe were elected Members of Parliament during the General Election held on October 29, 2025, while Ms Kizigha was appointed by the President on April 2, 2026, thereby ceasing to be EALA members in line with the law,” he said.

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Mr Leonard added that the Speaker of EALA was duly informed and confirmed that the positions are vacant and must be filled within 90 days. He said the election will observe representation categories, including women, Zanzibar, minority groups in Parliament and Mainland Tanzania.

According to him, Ms Kizigha previously represented Group A (Women), while Mr Millya and Dr Maghembe represented Group D (Mainland Tanzania), all under Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM). He further said that Ms Kange is contesting for one seat under Group A (Women), while Mr Chumi and Mr Wasira are vying for two seats under Group D (Mainland Tanzania).

On the voting procedure, Mr Leonard said candidates will first introduce themselves and seek support in English before Members of Parliament, who will also have an opportunity to ask questions prior to voting.

He said votes will then be counted and the winners announced. Mr Leonard also urged journalists to educate the public on the election process to enhance citizens’ understanding of how their representatives are elected.