What CCM's constitutional changes signalise ahead of general election

Among the central reforms is the overhaul of CCM’s candidate selection process. Previously, the selection of parliamentary and local government candidates was confined to delegates from ward, constituency, and district congresses.

Under the new framework, all members of Political Committees at the branch, ward, constituency, and district levels will participate in the voting process.

A political analyst from the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Richard Mbunda, views this shift as an effort to decentralize decision-making.

"Expanding the voter base diminishes the influence of small, exclusive groups that previously wielded disproportionate power," he explains.

He adds: "However, this broader participation could also introduce logistical challenges, particularly in ensuring the integrity and transparency of the process."

He says the shift reflects CCM’s ambition to align internal mechanisms with contemporary democratic norms.

Read: Why CCM is amending its constitution for 17th time

Another change is the mandatory inclusion of women in leadership. The changes stipulates that four of the 10 elected members of the Central Committee must be women, a significant step toward gender equity within the party.

A political scientist from the State University of Zanzibar, Prof Makame Ali Ussi highlights the importance of this measure as it aligns with global advocacy for women’s representation in decision-making roles and sets a precedent for other political entities in Tanzania.

"This requirement is more than symbolic. It recognises the critical role women play in governance and ensures their perspectives are incorporated into key decisions," he says.

However, he cautions that the success of this reform depends on empowering women in these roles to effect meaningful change.

CCM has also introduced changes to its grassroots structure, notably increasing the scope of each ‘shina’ (cell) from 10 to 20 households.

This adjustment is intended to strengthen the party’s reach and operational efficiency at the community level.

Additionally, the removal of formal application procedures for joining CCM aims to simplify membership access. Aspiring members now only need to inform their branch secretary to be registered.

On this, a political analyst and lecturer at the Open University of Tanzania, Dr Kabobe interprets this as a mixed development.

"While these changes may boost membership numbers and enhance grassroots mobilisation, they also risk compromising ideological coherence," he observes.

He continues: "Without rigorous vetting processes, the party could face challenges in maintaining its foundational principles."

Furthermore, the restructured voting process for candidate selection is expected to create a more competitive environment. By involving a larger pool of voters, CCM aims to reflect broader member preferences, reducing the sway of elite groups.

For his part, a political scientist at the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Paul Loisulie, sees this as a double-edged sword.

"While the broader participation reduces opportunities for undue influence, it also increases the complexity of consensus-building," he notes.

He shares: "This could lead to heightened competition and, potentially, internal divisions among aspirants." However, President Samia Suluhu Hassan who is also serves as a ruling party’s chairperson, warned during the meeting, "Those used to playing games with a small group of delegates should brace themselves"—underscores the transformative intent behind these changes.

In another significant development, CCM elected Stephen Wasira as a new vice chairperson-Tanzania mainland and formally endorsed President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar’s President Hussein Mwinyi as its presidential candidates for the Union and Zanzibar elections.

Dr Mbunda comments, “The unanimous endorsement signals the party’s commitment to continuity and stability, bolstering its narrative of progress under the current leadership.”

Former Tanzania President and CCM’s chairman, Jakaya Kikwete highlighted the unity behind this decision, emphasizing its importance in maintaining CCM’s cohesion. Dr Kabobe views this as a calculated move to avoid unnecessary internal rivalries.

"By endorsing incumbents, CCM consolidates its focus on external competition rather than internal conflicts," he explains.

However, some analysts argue that this approach may limit opportunities for emerging leaders within the party to showcase their capabilities.

Prof Ussi notes: “When new faces are given a chance to challenge the current leaders it makes them grow politically and at least gain experience, it is not that good to just name few people and say they will be candidates.”

The congress also marked a leadership transition, with Vice President Dr Philip Mpango announcing his resignation due to personal reasons. Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, CCM’s Secretary-General, was nominated as President Samia’s running mate for the 2025 elections.

Dr Kabobe shares, “This decision reflects the party’s adaptability and readiness to navigate evolving circumstances while maintaining leadership stability.”

Read: CCM's new constitution hint louded as bold move

On top of that, Prof Ussi interprets Dr Nchimbi’s nomination as a strategic choice.

"Nchimbi brings a wealth of administrative experience and a deep understanding of party dynamics. His inclusion on the ticket strengthens CCM’s leadership team and signals strategic continuity," he explains.

The constitutional changes also emphasize grassroots mobilisation as a cornerstone of CCM’s strategy for the 2025 elections. By enhancing the role of ‘mashina’ and simplifying membership processes, the party aims to build a robust network capable of driving voter engagement.

"Grassroots engagement has always been central to CCM’s electoral success. These reforms reflect an effort to modernize that strategy, but they also require significant investment in training and oversight to prevent potential abuses or inefficiencies," says Dr Mbunda.

According to Dr Mbunda, however, the success of this approach will depend on the effectiveness of its implementation.

The changes introduced by CCM are expected to influence the broader political landscape in Tanzania. Analysts believe these changes could prompt other parties to re-evaluate their internal structures and strategies to remain competitive.

"What CCM has done is essentially raise the bar for political organisation in Tanzania. Other parties will need to respond, either by adopting similar reforms or finding alternative ways to differentiate themselves," Dr Loisulie observes.

However, some critics caution against viewing these changes as purely democratic advancements.

"While the reforms are laudable on paper, their real impact will depend on how they are implemented. If they are used to consolidate power rather than promote inclusivity, the benefits will be limited," warns Dr Kabobe.

According to Prof Ussi the constitutional amendments also highlight CCM’s preparation for the 2025 elections, signalising a strategic alignment designed to maintain its dominance.

The emphasis on gender equity, grassroots engagement, and broader participation reflects an attempt to address public demands for transparency and inclusivity.

"These reforms are as much about optics as they are about substance. CCM is positioning itself as a forward-thinking party that listens to its members and responds to societal shifts. Whether this translates into electoral success remains to be seen," says Prof Ussi.

"What we are witnessing is a recalibration of CCM’s internal processes," Dr Mbunda says.