DODOMA, Tanzania - Tanzania's National Assembly of Tanzania has elected three new representatives to the East African Legislative Assembly, filling vacant seats and reinforcing the country's presence in the regional lawmaking body.

Lawmakers voted in Dodoma to appoint Fatuma Kange, Cosato Chumi and Kambarage Wasira following the exit of former members who transitioned into domestic parliamentary roles.

The election followed a competitive process in which candidates presented their agendas and responded to questions from Members of Parliament ahead of voting.

Announcing the results, Clerk of the National Assembly Baraka Leonard said 293 MPs cast ballots out of 401 in office, with no invalid votes recorded.

In the women's category, Kange secured 223 votes in favour against 70 opposed, translating to 76.1 per cent support. Chumi, representing Mainland Tanzania, won overwhelmingly with 289 "yes" votes and just four against, while Wasira garnered 284 approvals against nine rejections-both exceeding 95 per cent backing.

Speaking after the vote, Kange pledged to champion the interests of women entrepreneurs across the region, drawing on her background in business and SME development.

"I understand the challenges they face, and I will ensure their voices are heard at the regional level," she said, thanking Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership.

Chumi described his election as a mandate to strengthen Tanzania's influence within the East African Community, pledging to raise public awareness on opportunities available through regional integration, particularly in trade and investment.

Wasira, citing his private sector experience, committed to advocating for economic growth and deeper cooperation among member states, stressing that Tanzania is well-positioned to play a leading role in driving the bloc's development.

The new appointments come as the East African Community continues to push for closer economic integration, with EALA serving as a key legislative platform shaping regional policies and laws.

Notes to Editors

• The National Assembly of Tanzania is the country's legislative body responsible for lawmaking and oversight, including the election of representatives to regional institutions such as the East African Legislative Assembly.

• The East African Legislative Assembly is the legislative arm of the East African Community (EAC), tasked with enacting laws and overseeing matters that promote regional integration among member states.

• Tanzania is allocated nine seats in EALA, in line with EAC structures, with representatives drawn from different political and social groupings to ensure broad national representation.

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