CCM’s New Vice Chair, Wasira: A career defined by service, advocacy

Dar es Salaam. Following the appointment of Stephen Wasira to succeed Mr Abdulrahman Kinana as the CCM Vice Chairperson for Mainland Tanzania, The Citizen presents his biography, outlining his political journey as a stalwart of the ruling party.

Stephen Wasira is one of Tanzania's prominent politicians, with over four decades of significant contributions to the nation’s political landscape and development.

Born on July 1, 1945, in Bunda District, Mara Region, Wasira's life has been deeply intertwined with politics, economics, and public service.

A steadfast politician, he has held numerous ministerial roles, party management positions, and other influential posts, leaving an indelible mark on the country's history.

Education and early career

Mr Wasira’s educational journey took him to the United States, where he studied at the American University in Washington, DC.

He earned a Bachelor's degree in Economics and International Studies, followed by a Master’s degree in Applied Economics and another Master’s in Public Administration.

These qualifications prepared him well for the economic and administrative challenges he would later face in his political career.

Political journey

Wasira’s political career began at the age of 25 when he was appointed as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Mwibara constituency in 1970.

Shortly after, he was appointed by the first President Julius Nyerere, as Deputy Minister for Agriculture (1972–1975) and later as Regional Commissioner for Mara (1975–1982).

These roles gave him valuable administrative experience and a deep understanding of social and economic issues.

From 1982 to 1985, Mr Wasira served as a senior officer at Tanzania’s Embassy in the United States.

Upon his return in 1985, he won back his parliamentary seat for Bunda, continuing his active role in Tanzanian politics.

Ministerial roles

Mr Wasira held several key ministerial positions throughout his career.

Under President Ali Hassan Mwinyi, he served as Deputy Minister for Local Government and Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (1989–1990).

Later, under President Jakaya Kikwete, he served as Minister for Water (2006), Minister for Agriculture, Food, and Cooperatives (2006–2008), and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) between 2008 and 2010.

From 2010 to 2014, he was appointed Minister of State in the President’s Office for Social Affairs Coordination.

In these roles, Mr Wasira focused on managing development projects, particularly in agriculture, water, and local government, working to ensure equitable benefits for both rural and urban citizens.

Boldness and strong stance

Mr Wasira, often nicknamed "Tyson" for his bold political stance and sharp arguments, has earned respect in Tanzanian politics.

His ability to challenge opponents and speak out against injustice has defined much of his career.

In 1995, after a fallout with CCM, Mr Wasira ran for Parliament as a candidate for the opposition NCCR-Mageuzi, but his victory was annulled by the court.

He returned to CCM in 2005, regained his Bunda parliamentary seat, and continued to serve in senior government positions.

Mr Wasira has consistently opposed corruption and unethical practices, advocating for strong public leadership and accountability.

During his 2015 presidential campaign, he promised to strengthen public institutions and tackle corruption effectively.

Challenges and continued commitment

Mr Wasira’s political journey has not been without its challenges.

In 2015, he lost his Bunda Urban parliamentary seat to Esther Bulaya of the opposition party Chadema, a significant blow to his career.

Despite these setbacks, he has remained a vocal critic of corruption and a proponent of moral leadership.

Position within CCM

A long-time member of CCM, Mr Wasira has served on the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Central Committee (CC).

In the party’s 2012 internal elections, he was re-elected with a significant majority as the party's member of the NEC, reflecting the trust and confidence of his fellow party members.

He has also expressed his full support for President Samia Suluhu Hassan as CCM’s presidential candidate for 2025, emphasising the party’s tradition of supporting the sitting president to complete their two terms.

Mr Wasira has also been a staunch advocate for protecting Tanzania’s resources, condemning misleading propaganda.

On 29 July 2023, he declared: “CCM cannot sell our country; we are the ones holding the Tanganyika African Nation Unional Union (Tanu) and Afro Shiraz Party (ASP) legacies that entrusted this country to us.”

Despite the political challenges he has faced, Mr Wasira's contributions to Tanzania’s development, particularly in agriculture, water, and peaceful politics, remain exemplary.

His commitment to ethical leadership and national unity has solidified his legacy as a key figure in Tanzanian politics.