Are Tanzania’s inactive political parties still worth retaining?

Dar es Salaam. As Tanzania’s political calendar for 2024 closes with the civic polls concluded in November, a critical spotlight falls on the country’s multitude of political parties ahead of 2025 general election.
Registered in tens, many of these parties are either dormant or lack significant influence, raising an inevitable question: Does Tanzania genuinely need all the political parties listed in the registrar’s book?
The debate around the fate of these inactive entities has gained momentum, with analysts proposing mergers to form stronger and more viable political entities.

Yet, achieving another united political front akin to UKAWA ahead of the 2025 general elections appears elusive.

Basically, Tanzania’s political system boasts more than 20 registered political parties. However, only a handful actively participate in shaping the nation’s political discourse.

Beyond Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Chadema, ACT-Wazalendo, Civil United Front (CUF), and NCCR-Mageuzi, many parties exist merely on paper or emerge briefly during election periods before fading into obscurity.

Speaking to The Citizen, some argue that these parties, regardless of their inactivity, play a crucial role in sustaining the spirit of democracy.

A political analyst from the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA), Prof Makame Ali Ussi believes that the existence of multiple parties ensures that citizens have diverse options, even if those parties are not visibly active.

“Democracy is not just about active participation; it is also about the presence of alternatives. Even inactive parties represent ideologies and possibilities that may resonate with people in the future," he contends.

However, not everyone shares this view, a political scientist at the University of Dodoma, Dr Paul Loisulie, sees the proliferation of political parties without clear frameworks as detrimental.

“The sheer number of parties dilutes the essence of multi-party democracy. It becomes challenging for voters to identify viable alternatives when the political landscape is cluttered with entities that do not contribute to meaningful discourse," he argues.

For his part, a political scientist from the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Dr Richard Mbunda, concurs, emphasizing that the existence of numerous inactive parties creates voter apathy.

“People begin to view politics as a game of numbers rather than a platform for meaningful representation," he says.

This, he believes, undermines the electorate’s confidence in the democratic process.

The idea of merging inactive parties into formidable political entities is not new. Proponents argue that consolidating parties could lead to stronger opposition capable of challenging CCM’s longstanding dominance. However, barriers to mergers remain significant.

“Leadership ego is a major factor," notes a political analyst from UDSM, Dr Onesmo Kyauke.

Dr Kyauke continues: "Many party leaders are unwilling to relinquish control, even when their entities are clearly underperforming. This resistance stems from personal ambitions rather than collective political vision."

Additionally, another political analyst from UDSM, Dr Faraja Kristomus, highlights ideological fragmentation as a stumbling block.

"Tanzania’s political parties often lack clear and distinct ideologies. Without shared principles, it becomes difficult to establish a unified platform," he explains.

For him, the issue goes beyond numbers—it’s about creating parties that genuinely represent citizens' needs.

A political analyst from the Open University of Tanzania, Dr Revocatus Kabobe emphasizes the role of historical rivalries.

“Some parties were formed out of splits and disputes. Reconciling such differences requires genuine dialogue and trust-building, which are often in short supply in our political culture," he notes.

On the other hand, there are analysts who believe the mere existence of these parties, regardless of their activity, is valuable.

Dr Kristomus argues, “Even dormant parties serve as checks in the political ecosystem. Their presence ensures that no single entity monopolizes political space, even if they are not actively competing in elections.”

The 2015 general elections showcased the potential of unity through UKAWA (Umoja wa Katiba ya Wananchi), a coalition that brought together several opposition parties. While the alliance presented a formidable challenge to CCM, it eventually crumbled due to internal conflicts and differing agendas.

Prof Makame Ali Ussi reflects on UKAWA’s experience as both a success and a cautionary tale.

“UKAWA demonstrated that a united front could energize the electorate and present a credible alternative. However, its disintegration underscores the importance of cohesion and long-term strategy," he asserts.

For future coalitions to succeed, Dr Kabobe suggests drawing lessons from UKAWA’s shortcomings.

“Effective coalitions require clear agreements on power-sharing, policy priorities, and decision-making mechanisms. Without these, they risk being short-lived alliances of convenience," he says.

Yet, achieving this level of cooperation remains a challenge.

Tanzania’s legal framework also plays a critical role in shaping the political landscape. Currently, party registration laws do not impose stringent requirements for sustained activity, allowing inactive entities to persist.

Dr Loisulie suggests periodic reviews of party performance, with deregistration as a potential consequence for inactivity.

"Reforms are necessary to ensure that only parties with demonstrated public support and organizational capacity remain registered," he argues.

Dr Mbunda proposes financial incentives for mergers.

"Parties that agree to merge should receive financial support to build their organizational structures. This approach could encourage consolidation while fostering a competitive political environment," he adds.

The electorate, too, has a significant role to play in this debate. Many Tanzanians view inactive parties as a misuse of resources and a hindrance to democratic progress.

Dr Kyauke emphasizes, "Civic education initiatives can empower citizens to scrutinize parties and push for meaningful reforms. The electorate must demand more from political actors."

Still, others believe inactive parties may find relevance if the political environment becomes more inclusive.

Prof Ussi notes, “These parties might be dormant today, but political dynamics are unpredictable. Circumstances could arise where their ideologies and structures become crucial. We should not be too quick to dismiss them.”

Others believe whether through mergers, legal reforms, or public accountability, the need for change is evident.

Dr Kabobe stresses, “A vibrant democracy is not just about numbers but about the quality of political engagement. Tanzania needs a system where active and ideologically sound parties take centre stage.”

For Dr Kristomus, the future hinges on balance. "We must find a way to embrace diversity while ensuring effectiveness. Whether that means fewer parties or more active ones, the ultimate goal should be a democracy that works for all Tanzanians.”