G55 wants change as Chadema faces 2025 elections dilemma

The internal division within Chadema has become more pronounced with the emergence of a faction called G55, a group of prominent cadres pushing for Chadema to engage in the upcoming elections. 

This faction represents a significant shift in the party’s stance and is challenging the leadership, creating a sense of uncertainty about the party’s role in the 2025 elections.

Since the 2020 general elections, Chadema has been vocal in demanding political reforms aimed at ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

Party leaders, particularly chairman Tundu Lissu, have consistently highlighted the flaws in Tanzania’s electoral system, citing allegations of manipulation, intimidation, and an entrenched advantage for the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).

Chadema’s position, famously known as “No Reforms, No Election,” calls for sweeping reforms to the electoral system, including an independent electoral commission, a free media, and the restoration of democracy in the political landscape.

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Mr Lissu has been clear in expressing that the party will not engage in any elections under the current system, referring to it as a “slaughterhouse” for the opposition.

Earlier this year, Mr Lissu emphasised the party’s firm position, revealing: “We cannot go through elections like those of 2020, where it’s clear that we’re being led to slaughterhouses. We must have free and fair elections that can be trusted.”

He further clarified: “We are not talking about boycotting the election. We will not boycott it, but we will go to Tanzanians and the world and tell them that if CCM and the government do not implement electoral reforms for free and fair elections, then this year’s election should not happen at all.”

Despite this unified position, the emergence of the G55 faction has brought new tension within the party. G55 advocates for Chadema’s participation in the 2025 elections, arguing that engaging in the process, even without reforms, will allow the party to remain politically relevant and influential within the system.

In a press conference held at the end of last week, G55 representative Mr John Mrema explained their rationale:

“We believe that boycotting the elections will only serve to marginalize our party further. By participating, we can continue the struggle for reforms from within the system and maintain our relevance in the political arena.”

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The G55 faction consists of influential members within Chadema, many of whom have previously held prominent positions in the party and have substantial support among party members.

They argue that not participating in the election would isolate Chadema politically, making it appear disconnected from the people’s struggles.

They believe it is better to engage in the electoral process and fight for change from within, even if it means temporarily accepting the system’s flaws.

In response to the challenge posed by G55, Chadema’s central committee has emphasised party unity and discipline.

Reports suggest that regional party offices across Tanzania, including those in Dar es Salaam and Northern Zone, have begun sending letters to members of G55, urging them to clarify their positions within 14 days or face potential disciplinary action.

The increasing internal conflict within Chadema has drawn the attention of political analysts, many of whom are offering differing perspectives on the party’s next course of action.

The central question remains: should Chadema maintain its firm stance of “No Reforms, No Election” or reconsider and participate in the 2025 elections, despite the flaws in the current system?

Political scientist Dr Paul Loisulie of the University of Dodoma believes that Chadema’s participation in the elections could be beneficial, even without the necessary reforms.

He argues that engaging in the electoral process would allow the party to maintain its relevance and influence both within the political sphere and among Tanzanian voters.

“Engaging in the electoral process allows Chadema to maintain its political presence and continue advocating for reforms from within the system. Boycotting the election could lead to political irrelevance, diminishing the party’s influence as Tanzania enters a crucial election year,” Dr Loisulie told Political Platform.

Dr Loisulie suggests that Chadema’s ability to influence change does not depend solely on a complete overhaul of the electoral system.

Instead, he believes participating in the elections would provide an opportunity for the party to push for incremental reforms and build a stronger political base.

He warns that a boycott could result in ceding ground to the ruling CCM, eventually marginalizing Chadema in the long term.

In contrast, Prof Makame Ali Ussi of the State University of Zanzibar urges caution, warning that participating in the elections without the desired reforms would undermine Chadema’s commitment to democratic principles.

“Adhering to the ‘No Reforms, No Election’ stance reinforces Chadema’s dedication to democratic ideals. Participating without the reforms could legitimize a flawed process, damaging the party’s credibility and presenting it as weak and willing to compromise its values,” Prof Ussi explains.

He emphasises the importance of political integrity, especially in a context where opposition parties in Tanzania are often viewed with scepticism by the electorate.

“If Chadema compromises on its stance, it risks losing the trust of voters who view the party as the champion of genuine political reform,” he warns.

Political analyst Dr Onesmo Kyauke from the University of Dar es Salaam offers a more pragmatic perspective. He highlights the risks posed by internal divisions, particularly the rise of factions like G55.

“The emergence of factions like G55 reflects deeper tensions within Chadema. The leadership must manage these divisions carefully to preserve party unity and coherence. A divided party cannot mount an effective challenge to the ruling party,” Dr Kyauke observes.

Dr Kyauke suggests that Chadema could explore alternative forms of engagement, such as collaborating with other opposition groups to push for electoral reforms without necessarily boycotting the elections entirely.

This, he believes, would allow the party to maintain its political influence while staying true to its core principles.