By Staff Writer
The new Inter-Parliamentary Union Secretary-General was elected today, with Ambassador Anda Filip winning 229 out of 321 votes. She will assume office in July 2026, becoming the first woman to lead the IPU in the organization’s 140-year history.
Tanzania cast its vote for Ambassador Anda Filip, who previously visited Tanzania and advised the Central Committee to approve Arusha as the venue for the 153rd IPU Assembly in October.
Ambassador Hoyce Temu, Deputy Permanent Representative of Tanzania to the United Nations Office in Geneva and manager of the IPU desk from the IPU’s headquarters in Geneva, said from Turkey that Tanzania backs Ambassador Anda Filip, noting her visit to the country and her role in recommending Arusha as the host city for the upcoming Assembly. She described the election as a milestone for both gender representation and parliamentary cooperation.
Temu also confirmed that the Tanzanian delegation at the IPU is led by the Right Honorable Deputy Speaker Daniel Sirro, representing the Speaker of the National Assembly.
A number of Tanzanian delegation attended the meeting but only three lawmakers including of Hon. Elly Kingu, Hon. Kiza Mayeye, and Hon. Asha Feruz received the chance to cast their vote to elect Anda Filip to succeed Mr. Martin Chungong at the end of his term.
The outgoing Secretary-General has served since 2014 and is credited with expanding the IPU’s global reach and strengthening its role in promoting democratic governance.
"The Tanzanian delegation, composed of three respected lawmakers, cast their votes on behalf of the country in the newly elected Secretary-General’s election. Candidates for the position came from Sweden, Greece, Senegal, and Romania, reflecting the broad international interest in leading the 179-member organization," Ambassador Hoyce Temu said.
The election is set to shape the IPU’s strategic direction in areas such as parliamentary diplomacy, gender equality, and sustainable development.
Ambassador Temu added: “Tanzania remains committed to active participation in global parliamentary forums. Our presence here demonstrates our dedication to fostering dialogue and cooperation that advances both national and international interests.”
The delegation’s presence underscores Tanzania’s active engagement in multilateral forums and its commitment to contributing to global policy dialogue. The IPU meeting brings together parliamentarians from around the world to discuss legislative priorities and foster cooperation on pressing global issues. For Tanzania, participation offers an opportunity to advocate for African perspectives on governance and development while building partnerships that support national legislative capacity.
Tanzania’s involvement in the IPU aligns with its broader foreign policy of promoting peace, stability, and inclusive development across the region. The country has consistently emphasized the importance of strong parliamentary institutions as a foundation for accountability and citizen representation. By engaging in the election process, Tanzanian MPs are reinforcing the nation’s role as a constructive voice within the international community.
Looking ahead, the 153rd IPU Assembly is scheduled to take place from October 5 to 9, 2026, at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) in Arusha, bringing the global parliamentary forum to East Africa for the first time in its history. Hosting the Assembly reflects Tanzania’s growing stature in international diplomacy and its commitment to multilateral cooperation. President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to welcome over 2,000 delegates from member parliaments around the world. The event will showcase Tanzania’s leadership in parliamentary democracy while offering delegates a chance to experience the country’s cultural heritage and natural landscapes, including its renowned national parks.
The selection of the new Secretary-General comes at a time when parliaments worldwide face challenges including digital transformation, climate policy, and youth participation in governance. The incoming leader will be expected to guide the IPU in addressing these issues while maintaining its mandate as the global organization of national parliaments. The outcome of the vote will be closely watched by member states seeking to strengthen parliamentary cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
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