DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 22 -- THIS time next week on Wednesday the 29th, all roads will lead not to the markets, not to the stadiums and definitely not to party parades, but to our local polling stations.

It is voting day. A moment every five years where Tanzanians, from Kigoma to Kilwa, Dodoma to Dar, step forward with quiet power and loud purpose.

We will elect our Ward Councillors, Members of Parliament and, yes, the next President of the United Republic of Tanzania. Let us be clear: This is serious business, not a festival of flags and flyers.

This is not the time for party jerseys, chant battles or last-minute campaign theatrics disguised as “cheerleading”.

The law is clear and so is the expectation: No political colours,...