The ruling party in Tanzania has continued to make pledges to citizens ahead of the general election, promising to uphold democracy while assuring media freedom to enable the press to perform its duties effectively.
Shinyanga. CCM vice-presidential candidate, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, has stated that in the next five years, the party will ensure the protection of media freedom.
He added that if the party receives the citizens’ mandate in the general election scheduled for Wednesday, October 29, 2025 it will work to strengthen democracy so that Tanzanians can participate in politics without fear or hesitation.
Dr Nchimbi made the remarks on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 during a campaign rally where he solicited votes for CCM’s presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, as well as parliamentary and local council candidates.
The former CCM Secretary-General emphasised that the party has already strengthened internal democracy, with leaders accessible through nomination forms and votes from party members.
"A strong political party is measured by its structure. CCM is unique in that it has built itself from the national level down to its grassroots branches," said Dr Nchimbi.
He continued: "Just as we have strengthened democracy within the Chama cha Mapinduzi, we aim to see democracy flourish across the country, so every Tanzanian feels, sees, and recognises their freedom to engage in politics fully, without threats or doubts."
Dr Nchimbi added that the ruling party will ensure: "Media freedom is widespread and guaranteed, giving our people the opportunity to access education and diverse opinions through the media."
He also promised that over the next five years, peace, unity, and solidarity will be maintained.
Commenting on this pledge, Samson Msafiri, a resident of Maganzo, said that if the promises are fulfilled, it would be a positive step as people should be free to manage their affairs.
"There is a lot we hear online, issues with restrictions and journalists. Now, if they promise freedom, it will be good. People want to see broad democracy across all parties and live in peace," said Msafiri.
Earlier during the rally, CCM’s Mr Peter Msingwa praised the party for its policies, objectives, and philosophy. He highlighted that what was left unfinished by the predecessor, the late President John Magufuli, has been completed and continues to be pursued by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, including various development projects.
"What was left by the predecessor, President Samia has completed and continues to complete, including the JPM Busisi Bridge. Let us give her our votes to implement the party manifesto, while CCM MPs and councillors address our challenges and seek solutions to serve Tanzanians," said Msingwa.
Dr Nchimbi will continue canvassing for votes in Shinyanga, visiting Kahama District today, Thursday, September 4, 2025 for three rallies in Isaka, Kagongwa, and concluding in Ushetu.
Meanwhile, presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan will continue campaigning in the Southern Highlands, visiting Mbeya Region today in Mbalizi and rural Mbeya constituencies.
The 2025 General Election campaign began on August 28 and will conclude on October 28, with polling on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 to elect councillors, MPs, and the President, who will serve a five-year term until 2030.
