THE Tanzania Olympic Committee (TOC) has revealed a list of 27 candidates who have met the initial requirements to contest in the committee's upcoming general election, scheduled to take place on December 14 in Dodoma.

Speaking yesterday, TOC election chairperson Ibrahim Mkwawa confirmed that all 27 individuals cleared the first round of vetting for the 12 available positions. 

This election marks the first under the new TOC constitutional amendments, which transitioned the roles of Secretary General and Treasurer from elected to appointed positions.

The battle for the TOC presidency is shaping up to be a competitive four-way race, with Michael Washa, Anthony Mtaka, Henry Tandau, and Nasra Mohammed vying for the top position.

The vice presidency has drawn two contenders, Suleiman Jabir and Jamal Iddi, making it a straightforward but equally important race.

A total of 20 candidates are competing for seats on the TOC Executive Committee. 

According to Mkwawa, the committee will consist of five members each from Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, with a mandate to ensure at least two female candidates from each side.

“We have 27 people who have met the requirements to contest in the TOC general election. The process is ongoing. Complaints can be lodged today and tomorrow, and the final decision on these complaints will be made on Tuesday next week,” Mkwawa stated.

The finalized list of candidates is expected to be announced on December 3, with campaigning slated to run from December 5 to December 13.

Mkwawa reiterated the committee's commitment to gender equity, ensuring that women candidates are adequately represented in the election.

"Gender balance will remain a priority as we prepare for this election," he emphasized.

The TOC election process is being overseen by a dedicated commission led by Mkwawa, with Malangwe Ali Mchungahela serving as vice chairperson and Halfani Omari as secretary.

As the election date approaches, the TOC’s commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and competitive process is clear. 

All eyes will now turn to the campaigning period, where candidates will present their vision for the future of Tanzanian sports development.