Tanzania’s opposition party, Chadema, is facing a long-standing power struggle ahead of the country’s upcoming elections. The party’s chairman and deputy are vying for leadership positions, but both candidates agree that unity is key in opposing the ruling CCM party.
A Long-Standing Power Struggle Within Chadema
The Tanzanian party for Democracy and Progress, commonly known as Chadema, has been preparing for the upcoming elections in October. However, the party is facing a long-standing power struggle that needs to be resolved before it can effectively contest the presidential election.
Chadema was founded in 1992, shortly after Tanzania adopted a multiparty system of democracy. Despite its efforts, the party has yet to secure an electoral victory over the ruling CCM (Chama Cha Mapinduzi) party, which has ruled the nation since 1964.
A Divided Chadema: Mbowe vs. Lissu
The party chairman, Freeman Mbowe, and his deputy, Tundu Lissu, are vying for leadership positions in the upcoming party congress. The stakes extend beyond the chairmanship to the party’s future direction. While Mbowe champions continuity, arguing that the party’s past successes should not be overlooked, Lissu has called for transformative changes.
Lissu criticized the party’s resource distribution, noting that Chadema’s wealth often remains concentrated at its headquarters in Dar es Salaam, rather than reaching its grassroots in regional areas. He also stressed the need for structured leadership transitions, citing the party’s decision to abolish term limits in 2006 as a mistake.
Uniting Against the Ruling Party
Despite their differences, both top candidates are united in opposing President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government. Mbowe declared that the opposition must never lose hope and urged alliances with other parties, civil society, and academia to push for electoral and constitutional reforms.
The ruling CCM has been accused of electoral manipulation, and Chadema sharply criticized the handling of local elections last November. The party alleged unfair disqualification of candidates and reported the deaths of three party members in incidents related to the polls.
Abductions on the Rise: A Cause for Concern
Independent political analyst Lovelet Lwakatare describes Tanzania’s current situation as deeply troubling, citing little tangible progress under President Suluhu. The state’s primary role is to protect its citizens, and when marginalized voices are silenced, it’s a cause for concern.
Earlier this month, Tanzanian political activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai was abducted in Kenya‘s capital, Nairobi. However, due to the quick intervention of Amnesty International and mounting pressure on social media platforms calling for her release, she was freed hours later.
Can Chadema Overcome Its Challenges?
Some political observers argue that changing Chadema’s leadership could alter the dynamics. Lwakatare said that Chairman Mbowe has done remarkable work building Chadema, but it’s time for a vibrant opposition with fresh ideas and methods to hold the government accountable.
Lissu is seen as a candidate uniquely suited to challenge the status quo. Known for his unwavering courage, he has become a symbol of resilience. However, questions remain about his commitment should he lose the leadership race. Lissu has stated that he intends to remain loyal to Chadema regardless of the outcome.
