Exploring the Readiness for Electronic Voting (E-Voting) in Emerging Economies: Evidence from Dodoma, Tanzania

Abstract

There has been a lot of research on e-voting recently. Most studies assume that the implementation of e-voting is not merely about technology but also relates to several critical factors, such as the readiness of human resources and infrastructure, public trust, and others. This study explored the readiness for e-voting in developing countries, a case study of Tanzania. Specifically, the study aimed to examine the challenges of the current voting system, establish the e-voting readiness status in Tanzania, and find out factors for establishment of e-voting system in Tanzania. This study was quantitative in nature and obtained data from 196 respondents selected from Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officers and voters in Dodoma using purposive and convenient sampling techniques. Data was obtained from questionnaires distributed to officers and voters. The obtained data were analysed through descriptive statistics by the help of MS excel. The results show that the current voting system is faced with several challenges including limited safety, lack of trust, threat and insecurity vulnerability to mention but a few. It was further revealed that respondents were ready to adopt and use e-voting because it improves voters’ trust, ease voting procedures, reduces transportation costs on election materials/equipment and saves time. The study recommends the Independent National Election Commission of Tanzania, through various stakeholders see the possibility of establishing e-voting to achieve free and fair elections.