Kagera UVCCM chair sparks controversy with remarks on opposition and party ethics

 

The Chairman of the Youth Wing of Tanzania’s ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) in Kagera, Faris Buruhan (pictured center) has dismissed claims that his party could learn anything from the democratic practices of opposition parties. 

Speaking during an exclusive interview on Star TV’s The Big Agenda on December 29, 2024, Buruhan criticized the opposition, particularly Chadema, as lacking direction and riddled with leadership stagnation.

“Let me make it clear: we, as CCM, have nothing to learn from these opposition parties. Our system is transparent and organized. Our leaders serve for a maximum of ten years and pave the way for others. But look at Chadema—its chairman, Freeman Mbowe, has clung to power for over 20 years. That’s not leadership; it’s the stubbornness of an aging monkey unwilling to step aside,” said Buruhan.

 He further took a dig at the Civic United Front (CUF), noting that their chairman has been in office for over three decades. "What lessons could we possibly draw from such a model?” he questioned.

Ironically, Buruhan avoided addressing CCM’s history, particularly the extended leadership of Julius Nyerere, who led the party for over two decades. Surprisingly, this apparent contradiction went unchallenged by the program’s host.

Addressing allegations of sycophancy among youth leaders in CCM, Buruhan strongly defended his stance. “Praising the exceptional leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan is not sycophancy; it’s a recognition of her transformative work. Look at the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project—people can now travel from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro in just 90 minutes. The construction of the Bungongo-Busisi Bridge, which spans over three kilometers, is almost complete. We have every reason to celebrate and protect our chairman’s leadership,” he stated emphatically.

On the contentious issue of corruption, Buruhan conceded that completely eradicating it is a challenge but insisted that the situation is under control.

 “No society is entirely free of corruption, just as no family is without a wayward child. But the opposition exaggerates the problem. The Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) is doing its job well. If corruption were as rampant as they claim, how could such large-scale projects be successfully implemented?” he argued.

Discussing the economic development of Kagera, Buruhan highlighted significant progress despite the region’s historical struggles, including the Tanzania-Uganda war, and a devastating earthquake.

 “Kagera has faced immense challenges, but we’re recovering. Agriculture, particularly coffee farming, is flourishing. Today, farmers earn between TZS 5,000 and TZS 6,000 per kilogram of coffee—an incredible leap from the TZS 1,500 they used to get. Smuggling coffee to neighboring countries like Rwanda and Uganda is now unnecessary because local prices are competitive,” he noted.

Burhan also addressed recent controversies surrounding disappearances and kidnappings. He denied claims that state security agencies were involved, suggesting instead that such cases often stem from personal conflicts. 

“Some of these incidents are related to personal disputes, like infidelity. Blaming the government or security forces is misguided,” he remarked. He acknowledged delays in the judicial process as a factor eroding public trust but assured that measures are being taken to improve efficiency.

The UVCCM chairman also took pride in his organization’s community-focused initiatives. “Our work goes beyond politics. We visit hospitals, support bereaved families, and assist vulnerable groups. For instance, after the tragic killing of an albino child earlier this year, UVCCM mobilized resources to rebuild the victim’s family home. This is what leadership should look like,” he explained.

In a scathing critique of opposition youth groups, Buruhan questioned their visibility and effectiveness at the grassroots level. “Where are their structures? Take Bavicha, Chadema’s youth wing—do you know its chairperson in Kagera, or even at the ward level? They’re nonexistent. Only their national leaders, like John Pambalu, are visible. How can they claim to represent the people when they’re disconnected from the grassroots?” he asked.

When asked about his political ambitions, Buruhan was noncommittal. “I am fully focused on my role as UVCCM chairman for Kagera until 2027. I’m satisfied with the work our leaders are doing and will discuss plans when the time is right,” he said.

On water scarcity in Kagera, despite the region’s proximity to Lake Victoria, Buruhan attributed the issue to population growth outpacing resource expansion. “As the population grows, so does the demand for essential services. But progress is undeniable—only four villages in Kagera remain without electricity today. Compare this to 2007, when I was in Form One, and most areas had no power at all. This is a remarkable achievement,” he remarked.

Buruhan’s leadership, however, has not been without controversy. Earlier this year, he sparked outrage with a statement suggesting that those who insult President Samia or government officials on social media would face severe consequences. “Their time is up. Let the police deal with them when they disappear,” he declared during a public address in Ngara.

This statement drew sharp criticism from fellow CCM youth members, who demanded a retraction or resignation. Mohamed Ismail, a party cadre, said, “His comments shocked many. While we oppose online insults, advocating for disappearances is a gross violation of human rights. He must apologize or step down.”

Innocent John echoed the sentiment, highlighting that even CCM Secretary General Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi had condemned Buruhan’s remarks. “Dr. Nchimbi called his statement foolish. Yet Buruhan has remained silent. This arrogance reflects poorly on the party, especially as we approach critical elections in 2025,” John said.

Another UVCCM member, Ibrahim Rweyongeza, accused Buruhan of breaching the party’s ethical standards. “Our code of conduct stands on the pillars of unity, morality, and responsibility. Buruhan’s remarks not only violate these principles but also tarnish the image of UVCCM,” he asserted.

As CCM gears up for the crucial 2025 local government elections, calls for Buruhan to address the fallout from his controversial statements have intensified. “If he cannot apologize, he should step down. UVCCM exists to cultivate responsible leaders, not those who risk the party’s reputation with careless rhetoric,” Rweyongeza concluded.

Despite the growing criticism, Buruhan has remained silent on the matter, raising questions about his accountability and long-term viability in CCM. His appearance on The Big Agenda failed to confront these contentious issues, deepening speculation about his role within the party.

Adding to the controversy, Buruhan addressed allegations that UVCCM had directly confronted a former Speaker of the National Assembly, Job Ndugai after he criticized the government for promoting excessive betting. Defending UVCCM’s actions, Buruhan argued that loyalty to the head of state necessitated a robust response.

“When the head of state is attacked or maligned, it’s our duty, particularly as youth leaders, to stand up and defend her. Silence in the face of such assaults would be tantamount to betrayal,” he stated. However, this stance appeared to contradict his earlier claims that the party resolves issues through consultation and internal discussions rather than public disputes.

“Look, UVCCM does not thrive on sycophancy. We are an organization that embraces dialogue. When contentious issues arise, we sit down, debate them thoroughly, and resolve them amicably without resorting to public spats,” Buruhan said during the 30-minute-long interview.

While Buruhan emphasized the importance of unity within the party, his actions and words have left many questioning whether he practices what he preaches. His insistence on internal consultations seems at odds with UVCCM’s vocal criticism of Job Ndugai, which many viewed as a direct attack rather than a reasoned engagement.

As the interview concluded, Buruhan attempted to steer the conversation back to the achievements of UVCCM and its contributions to the nation. “Our focus remains on empowering the youth, supporting the government’s transformative agenda, and ensuring Tanzania continues to progress. Despite the noise, our mission is clear, and our resolve is unshaken,” he remarked with confidence.

While his words may have aimed to project strength and unity, the controversies surrounding his leadership linger. With CCM entering a critical political phase, Buruhan’s ability to navigate the storm and restore faith in his leadership will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping UVCCM’s future and its impact on the party at large.

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Chadema Leadership Crisis escalates as Mbowe and Lissu clash over chairmanship.

 The leadership battle between the two has raised significant doubts about Chadema’s ability to serve as a credible alternative to the ruling party, CCM. Photo: Courtesy

By Adonis Byemelwa

Chadema, the opposition party that prides itself on being a beacon of democracy and unity, is currently embroiled in a severe leadership crisis between its chairman, Freeman Mbowe, and prominent politician Tundu Lissu. 

This internal rift has exposed deep divisions within the party, raising questions not only about its leadership but also about the erosion of trust among its members.

Reports from within Chadema indicate that both Mbowe and Lissu have enlisted loyal youth groups to conduct covert social media campaigns, attacking each other while simultaneously promoting their leadership prospects.

Instead of addressing the pressing issues affecting Tanzanians, Chadema’s online platforms have transformed into battlegrounds of internal propaganda.

Lissu, who has gained international recognition for his bold statements and divisive rhetoric, is reportedly planning to challenge Mbowe for the party’s leadership. This move is seen as further fueling the split within Chadema. 

Lissu’s supporters argue that his global appeal and leadership charisma make him the ideal candidate to lead the party into the next election. However, critics within the party warn that his confrontational style could alienate potential followers.

On the other hand, Freeman Mbowe, a long-standing figure in Chadema, is determined to retain control. His camp accuses Lissu of opportunism, arguing that Lissu is trying to bypass long-serving members in favor of his ambitions. 

The leadership battle between the two has raised significant doubts about Chadema’s ability to serve as a credible alternative to the ruling party, CCM. If they can’t manage their internal disputes, how can they claim to lead a nation of over 60 million people?

The use of youth in these covert online campaigns exposes a level of hypocrisy within Chadema. While they accuse CCM of controlling media narratives, they are employing the same tactics to fight internal battles instead of focusing on the needs of Tanzanians.

 This situation reflects a broader trend within Chadema, where the party’s internal strife risks undermining its credibility and relevance in the eyes of the electorate.

As the leadership crisis continues to unfold, Tanzanians must ask themselves whether Chadema is truly putting the country’s interests first or simply serving as a platform for personal ambitions.

 The party’s differences with CCM are clear, but CCM, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, remains united and focused on delivering on its promises, further cementing the notion that unity is essential for effective governance.

The ongoing turmoil within Chadema highlights the flaws in their claims to be champions of democracy and accountability. If they cannot resolve their internal conflicts, their chances of leading the nation remain highly questionable.

 It is time for Tanzanians to view Chadema for what it is: a divided party driven by personal gain, selfishness, and a lack of direction.

In light of these developments, a call has been made for party officials like John Mnyika to step in and provide official guidance on the leadership campaigns, urging the formation of a reconciliation committee to help heal the internal divisions. 

Such steps would be crucial to prevent further damage to the party's integrity. The battle between Mbowe and Lissu also needs to be managed delicately to avoid creating lasting wounds.

The political analyst, Elias Mrutu, based in Dar es Salaam, points out that the current infighting in Chadema is a reflection of the challenges facing Tanzanian opposition parties in general. According to Mrutu, the infighting risks transforming Chadema from a potential powerhouse of democracy into a broken shell of its former self, undermining its ability to effectively challenge CCM.

Said Msonga, another analyst commonly consulted by UTV in Dar es Salaam, suggests that the party must find a way to unify its factions. 

He argues that the leadership struggle is taking a toll on the public image of the opposition, potentially reducing their chances in future elections. 

In Mwanza and Shinyanga, analysts are also closely monitoring the situation, with some predicting that the party could face a fate similar to CUF, whose fragmentation led to its downfall.

Both Lissu and Mbowe have expressed their determination to fight for the top position. Mbowe, who has led Chadema for 20 years, has now officially declared his intention to run for the chairmanship again, promising this would be his final term. 

The announcement came after he was approached by a group of party members who urged him to stay on. “After much reflection, I have decided to contest for the leadership one last time,” Mbowe said at a press conference, acknowledging the ongoing challenges but stressing the need for stability within the party.

Lissu, who had already announced his candidacy earlier, responded by downplaying any fears about Mbowe’s leadership. 

He emphasized that if he were to win, he would be the fourth chairman of Chadema, signaling a new era for the party. “I’m not afraid of the competition,” Lissu stated. “If elected, I will bring the change that the party needs.”

Despite the rivalry, both leaders have been keen to portray a sense of respect for one another. Mbowe dismissed any concerns about Lissu’s challenge, comparing it to the fierce political battles he has already faced, including those against former President John Magufuli. 

"Why should I fear Lissu?" Mbowe asked rhetorically. "I have faced much stronger opponents and emerged victorious. This is just another chapter."

Lissu also addressed concerns about his leadership style, acknowledging that his confrontational approach might not be to everyone’s taste, but asserting that it was necessary to push for political change in Tanzania. 

He has called for reforms within Chadema, including a cap on leadership tenure and changes to the party’s election system.

The rift between Mbowe and Lissu has led to the formation of two distinct factions within the party. As each camp rallies behind its respective leader, there are growing fears that Chadema’s unity could be permanently fractured. 

Both analysts and party insiders warn that the infighting could severely weaken Chadema’s position in the next general election.

The leadership battle also brings into focus the issue of term limits and the question of whether long-serving leaders should step aside to make way for new ideas. 

Dr. Myles Monroe, a leadership expert, argues that effective leadership requires knowing when to step down and allowing for fresh perspectives. 

Many young Tanzanians, particularly from the Gen Z demographic, view Lissu as the candidate capable of pushing for the changes they desire.

Mbowe, however, is aware of the pressure from within and outside the party. While he understands the demand for new leadership, he argues that his experience is still valuable. "I may be 63, but I still have the energy and drive to lead,” Mbowe said during his announcement. “I’m not done yet."

Despite his decades-long leadership, Mbowe insists he is still the best person to guide the party, arguing that no one else has the same level of experience or political acumen. 

In contrast, Lissu’s supporters believe that his time abroad and his radical approach make him a better choice for the future of Chadema.

As the race heats up, Tanzanians are left to wonder if Chadema can put aside its divisions and present a united front. If they fail, their decline could mirror that of other opposition parties like CUF. 

 Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that Chadema’s internal strife is becoming a major issue in the country’s political landscape. 

If the party can overcome its internal divisions, it could strengthen democracy and create a viable alternative to CCM. But if it fails, it risks irrelevance and further fragmentation. The next few months will be crucial for the party and the future of Tanzanian opposition politics.

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Kadea Members resolve to protect Village lands and boost education in Missenyi

 Kadea members unite in harmony, singing their powerful solidarity anthem, "Ndi wa KADEA akala na a kalenge" ("I belong entirely to KADEA, from the tips of my fingers to the soles of my feet"). Photo: Mutayoba Arbogast

By Mutayoba Arbogast

Misenyi, Kagera---Residents of Kanyigo and Kashenye wards in Missenyi District have resolved to adopt a participatory approach to land use management, ensuring that village lands are neither grabbed by locals nor sold arbitrarily by executives. This decision aims to preserve land resources for future generations while addressing ongoing concerns about unsanctioned land transactions.

The resolution was reached during the general meeting of the Kanyigo Development Association (Kadea) held on December 19, 2024, at the Kanyigo Secondary School lounge, a facility owned by Kadea. Participants expressed frustration over cases where village lands have been acquired improperly, citing examples like Bweyunge village. 

There, a large tract of land was taken under the pretense of starting a tourism project involving an animal farm. However, years later, the project remains dormant, leaving the village in dire need of over 104 hectares for a proposed block farming scheme.

Kadea Chairperson, Colonel (Retired) Ngemela Lubinga, assured attendees that the association would engage Missenyi District Council to request land surveyors and planning officers to take corrective actions. “There is no worse conflict than a land conflict. When land is exploited recklessly, it’s a recipe for chaos. We must stand firm and protect our lands just as our ancestors did,” Lubinga declared.

Turning to education, Lubinga applauded the management, parents, and students of Kanyigo Secondary School for their stellar performance in regional and national examinations. 

The Form Four results included 99 students achieving Division One, 55 earning Division Two, and 4 obtaining Division Three. Similarly, Form Six results showed 21 students in Division One, 15 in Division Two, and 2 in Division Three. 

Despite this success, Lubinga noted the challenge of declining enrollment due to increased competition from government and private schools. To address this, Kadea has launched a special recruitment and mobilization program for new students.

Edwin Mabale, a resident of Bugombe village, proposed that Kadea sponsor the best-performing Standard Seven pupil from each of the 14 primary schools across Kanyigo and Kashenye wards. 

He suggested this as a way to honor the elders who founded the organization in 1984 and to support brilliant students whose families cannot afford school expenses. The proposal was warmly received and noted for further consideration.

Salim Mbazira, the headmaster of Kanyigo Secondary School, emphasized the institution’s commitment not only to academic excellence but also to instilling moral values and societal ethics. “Our goal is to guide students to distinguish right from wrong and nurture them into patriotic citizens,” Mbazira stated.

This year, Kadea welcomed 26 new members, including Mbelwa Kairuki, Tanzania’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. The inclusion of prominent individuals underscores the association’s growing influence and commitment to fostering development in the community.

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Vice President urges PCCB to step up anti-corruption efforts ahead of 2025 elections.

By The Respondent reporter

Tanzania’s Vice President, Dr. Philip Mpango (pictured left), has directed the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) to intensify preparations for tackling corruption during the 2025 General Elections, particularly focusing on curbing bribery through digital platforms and mobile money transfers.

Speaking at the annual PCCB leadership meeting in Arusha, Dr. Mpango underscored the threat corruption poses to national progress.

He warned that leaders elected through corrupt practices are unlikely to address citizens’ grievances, supervise development projects, or champion integrity. "Corruption undermines everything we strive to achieve as a nation," he said.

The Vice President urged PCCB staff to uphold the highest standards of integrity and impartiality.

He called for fair decision-making, diligent investigations, and a strong commitment to public service, emphasizing that the bureau must be a model of ethical behavior.

He also stressed the importance of adhering to legal procedures while addressing the concerns of ordinary citizens.

Dr. Mpango called for robust systems to investigate, prevent, and punish corruption effectively.

He directed PCCB to connect all its offices nationwide through advanced ICT systems and train staff in modern investigative techniques.

 Protecting whistleblowers, he added, is critical to ensuring transparency and accountability.

He urged the media to play an active role in the fight against corruption by educating the public and conducting investigative reporting to expose wrongdoing.

Nevertheless, he warned against biased or misleading reporting, which he said risks undermining efforts to inform the public and address corruption.

Dr. Mpango directed PCCB to focus on eradicating corruption in grassroots institutions such as local courts and land councils, ensuring citizens receive fair treatment. He also ordered investigations into officials implicated in mismanaging or embezzling development funds identified during the 2024 Uhuru Torch inspection.

The Vice President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating corruption under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, emphasizing investment in strong criminal justice systems and sufficient resources for PCCB.

 "We are committed to giving PCCB the tools and support it needs to fulfill its mission," he said.

PCCB Director-General Crispin Chalamila reported that the agency recovered TZS 18 billion over the past year through investigations and monitoring development projects.

 These funds were either returned to the government or used to complete essential projects. He also noted an increase in successful prosecutions, with a win rate of 75.5% in 2024 compared to 67.7% the previous year.

The annual meeting, attended by PCCB leaders from across the country, is aimed at reviewing progress and developing strategies to strengthen Tanzania’s anti-corruption efforts.

 

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Chadema at crossroads: Can the opposition party overcome and survive its turmoil?

 Mbowe’s financial prowess, which has been instrumental in sustaining the party through lean times, is now the subject of both praise and scrutiny. Photo: Courtesy 

By Adonis Byemelwa

The turbulence rocking Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, has reached a critical peak, shaking the foundations of a movement once seen as a beacon of democratic hope. The party, long heralded as the strongest challenger to the country’s ruling party, finds itself mired in internal discord and vulnerable to alleged external interference.

The stakes are high, not just for the party but for Tanzania’s political landscape, as Chadema’s future hangs in the balance. At the center of this storm are questions of leadership, allegations of corruption, and deepening divisions that threaten to fragment the party.

Freeman Mbowe, Chadema’s long-serving chairman, is a polarizing figure at the heart of these challenges. His leadership, defined by resilience in the face of intense political repression, has earned him admiration from many quarters. 

Supporters view him as the steady hand Chadema needs in a political environment hostile to opposition voices. They point to his financial resources and extensive experience as vital assets in navigating the party through these treacherous waters. 

Nevertheless, Mbowe’s critics argue that his approach has alienated key party members, accusing him of sidelining dissenters, consolidating power, and failing to address the growing dissatisfaction within Chadema’s grassroots base.

Yericko Nyerere, a rising star in the party, has emerged as another flashpoint in Chadema’s ongoing struggles. Nyerere, with his fiery rhetoric and grassroots appeal, has gained significant traction among younger party members and supporters who see him as a breath of fresh air. 

To his admirers, he represents the frustration of a generation yearning for genuine change and a departure from the entrenched practices of the past. They see in him a leader unafraid to challenge the status quo, someone willing to disrupt internal complacency to push Chadema closer to its democratic ideals.

Yet, Nyerere’s rise has not been without controversy. Critics argue that his confrontational style and sharp criticism of the party’s current leadership have fueled divisions and undermined unity at a time when cohesion is essential. 

They accuse him of capitalizing on internal discontent to further his ambitions, painting him as a destabilizing force rather than a unifying figure. This dynamic has created a sharp fault line within the party, reflecting broader tensions about Chadema’s future direction and the balance between fresh leadership and experienced stewardship.

Amid these internal challenges, Chadema also faces allegations of external sabotage that further complicate its predicament. Dr. Wilbrod Slaa, a former heavyweight within the party, has publicly claimed that Abdul Hafidh, the son of Tanzania’s President, is orchestrating a covert campaign to weaken Chadema by funneling funds to sow discord. 

These allegations have fueled speculation about the extent of government interference in opposition politics and underscored the difficult environment in which Chadema operates. 

Such claims highlight the risks posed by financial inducements in Tanzanian politics, where money often serves as a tool for political manipulation, blurring the lines between governance and partisanship.

Mbowe’s financial prowess, which has been instrumental in sustaining the party through lean times, is now the subject of both praise and scrutiny. 

While his supporters argue that his resources are crucial for Chadema’s survival, critics question the transparency surrounding these funds and their influence on party decisions. The tension between Mbowe’s financial influence and calls for greater accountability epitomizes the larger struggle within Chadema over its identity and values.

These leadership and financial controversies resonate far beyond Chadema’s inner circles, stirring reactions across Tanzania. In regions like Shinyanga, Mwanza, and Simiyu, where Chadema has historically drawn strong support, there is a palpable sense of disillusionment. 

Many grassroots supporters feel the party has lost its way, becoming increasingly consumed by internal rivalries and detached from the everyday struggles of ordinary Tanzanians. 

This sentiment is echoed on social media, where heated debates about the party’s direction dominate discussions, exposing the depth of dissatisfaction among its base. Social media platforms have also amplified calls for change, creating pressure on Chadema’s leadership to address these issues or risk losing its relevance.

The challenges Chadema faces today are emblematic of the broader struggles of opposition parties in Tanzania, where operating in a political environment heavily skewed in favor of the ruling party has always been fraught with difficulty. 

Over the years, Chadema has had to contend with systemic obstacles, including restrictive laws, limited access to resources, and harassment of its leaders and supporters. 

Despite these challenges, the party has managed to carve out a significant space for itself in Tanzania’s political landscape, offering a credible alternative to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM). However, the internal discord now threatens to undo these hard-won gains.

The question of leadership looms large in determining Chadema’s future. Can the party reconcile its internal differences and emerge stronger, or will it succumb to the divisions that have plagued so many opposition movements in the region? 

For Chadema, the answer lies in its ability to bridge the gap between its established leadership and the new voices clamoring for change. This will require genuine dialogue and a willingness to embrace reforms that prioritize unity and inclusivity over personal ambition and factionalism.

At the same time, Chadema must find ways to insulate itself from external pressures that seek to exploit its vulnerabilities. 

This means not only addressing allegations of corruption and financial impropriety but also developing a more transparent and accountable system for managing its resources. By doing so, the party can rebuild trust among its supporters and reclaim its position as a force for democratic reform in Tanzania.

Tanzania’s main opposition party stands at a critical crossroads as internal divisions and external pressures threaten its unity. Freeman Mbowe, who has led the party since 2004, is credited with steering Chadema through challenging times but is also criticized for sidelining dissenting voices. 

The emergence of Tundu Lissu, a symbol of resilience and former vice chairman, as a potential challenger for the chairmanship has intensified the leadership debate. Although Lissu has denied plans to run, sources close to him suggest his candidacy is imminent, sparking heated discussions within the party.

Lissu has accused Chadema’s leadership of corruption and mismanagement, claiming illicit funds have infiltrated the party’s internal elections. He has also criticized its negotiations with the ruling CCM, alleging the party was deceived with false promises of a power-sharing deal. Chadema spokesperson John Mrema has dismissed these allegations, stressing the party’s commitment to democratic principles and denying any evidence of corruption.

The infighting has been fueled further by Yericko Nyerere, a Chadema member known for divisive rhetoric. Nyerere’s mudslinging against both Lissu and Mbowe has drawn criticism from party loyalists, who question his motives. Many argue that instead of fostering unity, Nyerere’s inflammatory remarks risk deepening divisions at a time when cohesion is most needed.

Observers warn that Chadema’s internal discord could lead to fractures within the party. Political analysts highlight the split between Mbowe’s backing from senior structures like Bawacha and Bazecha and Lissu’s support among younger members. They urge the party to embrace internal democracy, allowing free competition for leadership without interference, as this would bolster its credibility.

Adding to Chadema’s challenges are allegations by Dr. Wilbrod Slaa that external forces are funding efforts to destabilize the party. Dr. Faraja Kristomus, a political science lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), observed that the party risks fracturing if it cannot reconcile the competing interests of its leaders and members. 

“Mr. Lissu is supported by the youths, while Mr. Mbowe has the backing of the Women’s Wing (Bawacha), the Elders’ Wing Council (Bazecha), and Central Committee members,” Dr. Kristomus noted. He emphasized the importance of allowing democracy to take its course within the party, warning that interference could deepen divisions.

Chadema’s future now depends on reconciling differences, addressing allegations of corruption, and renewing its focus on challenging CCM’s dominance. The choices the party makes in the coming months will not only determine its survival but also serve as a litmus test for Tanzania’s democracy. For Chadema, this is a decisive moment to emerge stronger—or risk irrelevance.

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