Tanzania inquiry commission on 2025 post-poll chaos granted 21 more days

Commission Chairperson Justice Othman Chande addressing the press on April 8, 2026/HANDOUT 

Tanzania’s Independent Commission of Inquiry into the October 2025 incidents has been granted a further 21-day extension, pushing its deadline to April 24, 2026, as authorities work to accommodate an overwhelming public response.

The extension, announced in an official government gazette notice issued on April 4, marks the second time the commission has been given additional time to complete its work.

Officials say the move was necessary after a surge in public submissions made it impossible to conclude the investigation within the previous timeframe.

In a statement, the commission said the extra period will allow it to complete several critical tasks, including detailed analysis of evidence, forensic examinations, review of newly submitted materials, and preparation of its final report in both Swahili and English.

“The Commission continued to receive substantial public submissions beyond expectations, making it impossible to conclude its work within the initial extension period,” the statement said.

Commission Chairperson Justice Othman Chande addressing the press on April 8, 2026/HANDOUT 

He cited ongoing receipt of evidence, pending expert input from scientific specialists, and the need for thorough analysis as key factors behind the delay.

“First, more evidence is still coming in; second, expert advice we requested from scientific specialists is being provided; third, the need for thorough analysis; and fourth, ensuring the evidence is presented in both Swahili and English,” he said.

Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, Justice Chande also revealed that the scope of the investigation has expanded significantly. 

While the commission initially planned to cover six regions, it has since widened its reach to 12 regions to gather more comprehensive information.

He further emphasized the commission’s independence, stating that it operates professionally and without external influence.

“No one can dictate what should be included or excluded in the report,” he said.

The commission was established by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on November 20, 2025, with an initial 90-day mandate to investigate the events of October 29, 2025. 

It had previously been granted a 42-day extension before this latest addition, following a surge in public participation and the volume of evidence collected.