It’s D-day for Tanzania’s Chadema chairmanship battle

A two-horse race

Although Charles Odero is also in the running, the contest has predominantly revolved around Mbowe and Lissu, dividing the party into two factions.

Supporters of Lissu argue that after 21 years under Mbowe’s stewardship without securing state power, Chadema needs fresh leadership.

Meanwhile, Mbowe’s followers have accused Lissu of being divisive and breaching party confidentiality by airing internal matters publicly.

Mbowe’s camp maintains that a leadership change amidst a critical political struggle would be detrimental.

In contrast, Lissu’s proponents assert that the party needs a chairperson capable of directly challenging the government with renewed vigour and pushing for far-reaching reforms.

Fears of division

The fierce competition has raised concerns about potential divisions within Chadema.

The accusations and counter-accusations from both camps, as well as the strong rhetoric employed by the candidates’ supporters, have only served to raise tensions and concerns.

Observers worry that the outcome of the election could deepen internal fractures, especially given the passionate support both candidates command.

 Mbowe’s unity appeal

In the face of these tensions, Mbowe has called for unity, emphasising the importance of solidarity within the party.

Addressing Chadema’s National Executive Council yesterday, he urged members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the party’s mission.

“We have not come to Dar es Salaam to divide ourselves but to build and strengthen this party to fulfil the dreams of Tanzanians,” Mbowe said.

He warned against succumbing to external forces seeking to destabilise Chadema and stressed that differences should strengthen rather than weaken the party.

 “This is the day the whole world is watching. Our opponents are observing us, and our friends are waiting in anticipation. Let us demonstrate that Chadema is united and part of God’s plan,” Mbowe added.

 Too close to call

Political analyst Dr Revocatus Kabobe has described the election as too close to call, with both Mbowe and Lissu commanding nearly equal support.

“The campaigns and recent council elections reveal a split within the party. Both candidates have significant backing, making a landslide victory unlikely,” he observed.

Dr Kabobe noted that Mbowe’s previous elections saw him secure over 95 percent of the vote, but this time the dynamics are markedly different.

Dr Kabobe believes that neither candidate can claim a guaranteed victory at this stage.

“These two factions have gained strong emotional support from voters, so whoever wins is likely to do so by a narrow margin,” he predicted.

Chadema’s anniversary

Coinciding with the leadership election, today also marks the anniversary of Chadema’s official registration as a political party.

Secretary-General John Mnyika highlighted this milestone in a recent social media post, noting that the anniversary is symbolised by the theme ‘Stronger Together.’.

“This Congress is not only about leadership transition but also a celebration of Chadema’s journey since its founding in 1992 and official registration in 1993,” Mnyika wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

“As we mark this occasion, I urge everyone to remember and honour those who lost their lives fighting for justice since Chadema’s inception,” he added, listing names such as Ally Kibao, Alfonce Mawazo, and Daudi Mwangosi among those to be remembered.

Mnyika also reminded party members to arrive at the headquarters in Mikocheni on January 19 for registration ahead of the Congress.

Congress agenda

Chadema’s Director of Protocol and Foreign Affairs, John Mrema, outlined the Congress’s schedule, confirming that proceedings will begin at 11:00 AM and will be broadcast live. Delegates will elect the national chairman and vice chairpersons for both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Over 50 guests, including ambassadors and international political figures, are expected to attend the event.

Following the elections, the national executive council will convene tomorrow to appoint eight central committee members and propose a new secretary-general to succeed Mnyika.

 A pivotal moment

With Chadema’s leadership transition and anniversary celebrations happening simultaneously, today is set to be a defining moment for the party.

The outcome will not only shape Chadema’s future but could also have far-reaching implications for Tanzania’s political landscape.