As Tanzania prepares for the General Elections in October, the political landscape is indeed heating up, particularly between the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), and the main opposition party, Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA). Each party is likely focusing on various strategies to maximize their chances of success and address potential obstacles.
The ruling party may be working to solidify its support among its traditional voter base, ensuring that its local leaders and members are mobilized effectively.
It is from this perspective that Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel John Nchimbi, Tanzania’s ruling partý Chama Cha Mapinduzi ( CCM) Secretary General, has issued a firm warning to the party members regarding the importance of adhering to the party’s rules and regulations as they seek nominations for councilor, representative, and parliamentary positions.
Ambassador Nchimbi emphasized that CCM would not condone any violations of the party’s protocols and that disciplinary actions would be taken against those engaging in improper campaign practices.
During a statement addressing Branch and Ward members from Dodoma District, Ambassador Nchimbi highlighted concerns over specific tactics being employed by some individuals in their quest for nomination.
Those tactics include forming non-governmental organizations (NGOs), financially backing social events, and manipulating party sessions to ensure unchallenged nominations. He noted that there have been instances of current MPs and councilors attempting to create favorable conditions for themselves, including attending events to introduce themselves to potential voters while presenting themselves in CCM attire to build perceived support.
Ambassador Nchimbi underlined that the CCM maintains a rigorous monitoring system for member conduct, with thorough records of all activities preserved. He cautioned that individuals who disregard party policies may find themselves sidelined during the nomination process.
He further urged sitting councilors and parliamentarians to refocus on their responsibilities, rather than prioritizing personal political ambitions under the guise of election preparations. The party’s assessment of candidates will be based on performance and service to the public, not on attempts to sway voters through financial incentives or unethical practices.
Nchimbi reiterated that the recent amendments to the CCM Constitution, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, are designed to enhance voter engagement and combat corruption within the party.
He remained resolute in his stance that tactics aimed at circumventing the proper nomination processes are unacceptable, stressing that such behaviors would lead to early disqualification from the electoral race. He concluded by calling upon all levels of CCM leadership to uphold the party’s values and ensure adherence to its constitution.
Ambassador Nchimbi’s statements serve as a significant reminder of the party’s commitment to integrity and accountability as Tanzania prepares for its upcoming elections.
However some party cadres are discontent to learn CCM National Congress on January 19 this year, offocially endorsed President Samia Suluhu Hassan as CCM candidate for the upcoming elections.
Reverend Godfrey Malisa who publicily opposed the decision of issuing one form within the party,to not allowing democracy to take its due course saying it was unconconsititutional, was expelled from the party, accussed of breaking ethical guidlines.
As a vibrant opposition party, CHADEMA may focus on mobilizing grassroots support, engaging voters directly through community outreach and rallies, has also come out with the slogan, ‘No Reforms, No Elections’ which has been clarified by Tundu Lissu, CHADEMA Chairperson, saying it doesn’t necessarily mean a total boycott of the election but rather a strategic method of non-violent resistance to the government insisting on reforms in order to have a free and fair election.
Lissu is just cementing the No Reforms No Elections perspective initiated by former Chairperson Freeman Mbowe who said President Samia’s 4Rs paradigm (Reconciliation, Resilience,Reform, Rebuild) has proved infertile.
Lissu called for reforms that would enable increased checks and balances on presidential powers, which currently inhibit the independence of other organs of the state, tracing back the country’s electoral history from British colonial rule in the 1950s to the first multiparty elections in 1995 with persistent systemic weaknesses that have been facing democratic process.
Concerns regarding the fairness and transparency of the electoral process could be a significant hurdle , so it might need to advocate for credible elections
