Kinana’s successor: CCM to unveil new vice chairperson in January 2025

Dodoma. The successor of Abdulrahman Kinana as Tanzania’s ruling party Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) vice chairperson is expected to be announced next month, the party insiders say.

According to the informants, CCM will select the new vice chairperson during the party’s special general meeting which will be held on January 18–19, 2025.

Mr Kinana, resigned from the role on July 29, 2024 and the position has remained empty for nearly five months, an unprecedented situation in CCM's history.

According to the CCM constitution, the vice chairperson plays a vital role in supporting the party's chairperson in carrying out duties.

The January 2025 meeting will specifically address the matter, with seven prominent CCM members being considered as potential successors to Mr Kinana.

Since the departure of Mr Kinana, the party's secretariat, led by Secretary General Emmanuel Nchimbi, has continued to operate effectively, showcasing the strength and resilience of CCM’s leadership structure.

The CCM constitution requires three general meetings within a five-year period—two electoral and one regular working meeting.

The 2022 general meeting, where President Samia Suluhu Hassan was elected as CCM Chairperson, was the first under the 2022–2027 leadership term.

The individuals mentioned as possible successors include Abdallah Bulembo, a former chairman of CCM’s Parents’ Wing and MP. Mr Bulembo is a veteran party member with extensive political experience.

Stephen Wassira, a seasoned politician with leadership roles in both the government and CCM since Mwalimu Nyerere’s era, is also in consideration.

Others include former Prime Ministers Mizengo Pinda, and Frederick Sumaye.

Paul Kimiti, a former assistant to Mwalimu Nyerere on party matters and a long-serving CCM leader, is also on the list.

Prof Mark Mwandosya, who has held ministerial and party leadership roles, is another candidate.

Dr Nchimbi, the current CCM secretary general and a former minister, is being considered. He also previously led the CCM Youth Wing (UVCCM).

Kinana’s history

After resigning as CCM secretary general on May 28, 2018, Mr Kinana returned to the party on April 1, 2022. He was then appointed CCM vice chairman for Mainland, a role he resigned from on July 28, 2024.

Political analysts believe the vice chairperson position is critical for strengthening CCM's leadership as it prepares for the 2025 general elections.

Analysts stress that the new vice chairperson must work closely with the National Chairperson to foster unity within the party.

“This is a key position. CCM needs a leader with vision and a strong understanding of the party's goals as it heads towards the 2025 elections,” said Mr Faraji Mayunga. 

Political science scholar, Ms Jane Ismail, pointed out that a woman has never held this role, suggesting CCM should consider appointing one.

“The January 2025 general meeting will set the tone for CCM's leadership as the party approaches the elections. President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to lead this process with wisdom and ensure the party maintains strong and stable leadership,” she said.