Mbowe urges unity as Chadema hold youth, elders’ wing elections

 Dar es Salaam. Chadema chairman, Mr Freeman Mbowe, has called on the councils of youth and elders to stand united and reject intraparty divisions.

He made the appeal on Monday, January 13, as the party conducted elections for wing leaders.

Mr Mbowe, who faces fierce competition for the party’s leadership position from his deputy, Tundu Lissu, emphasised that positions are temporary and the party's goals should come before individual interests.

"For the party to fulfil its responsibilities, we depend on each other, so we must embrace unity and not allow any forces of division; we must reject any evil who wants to destroy us,” he said.

According to him, elections would take place, and afterward, the candidates would shake hands and work together to strengthen the party.

He stressed the importance of finding a working formula and pointed out that destroying the party is akin to treason, as it would undermine the hopes of many Tanzanians grappling with various challenges.

Mr Mbowe made these remarks during his speech ahead of the elections.

The meeting was also attended by Mr Lissu, who emphasised the importance of unity and solidarity.

Mr Mbowe acknowledged that the party has faced significant challenges, particularly noting the ongoing disputes surrounding leadership positions.

"Everyone here is a witness. Over the past seven years, this party has endured countless trials. We have faced every imaginable challenge, not just for ourselves but alongside other opposition parties. Yet, through it all, we have stood resilient and emerged as heroes," said Mr Mbowe.

"The trials were many, for MPs, councillors, and some even lost their lives fighting for this party. I want the elders to continue with patience and be proud that you stood firm in defending it. Those who want to divide us, we should reject them,” he added.

Addressing the youth council, Mr Mbowe acknowledged the pivotal role young people have played in advocating for their rights.

However, he pointed out that many are not prepared to take the necessary steps to actively fight for those rights.

He urged the council to develop a robust programme aimed at mobilising grassroots support to tackle the challenges they face collectively.

Mr Mbowe emphasised that a significant proportion of Tanzania's population consists of youth, who represent the country's future.

He asserted that no development, including economic progress, can succeed without the active involvement of young people.

He urged the youth to recognise their crucial role in shaping the nation's future.

According to him, the youth of Chadema should take time to reflect on how they can contribute to addressing these challenges.

He called on them to develop a programme aimed at educating all young people on how they can actively participate in bringing about positive change in the country.

“We should not only focus on urban areas; we need to go to the grassroots and work with them for the benefit of the country and the youth. Sustainable strategies need to be created now, as we should not expect simplicity in the coming elections,” he said.

He said that in achieving the party’s goals, all need each other, and any force aimed at weakening the party will be strongly rejected.

“For 30 years we have safeguarded this party, and that is why you find it as it is. You too, as a youth, must protect it so that future generations will find it intact. Positions are a responsibility, and they come and go, but the party will remain, so let’s respect each other.”

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Lissu urged the youth to vote for leaders who will fight for the country's development and the liberation of others.

“Many youths have died while fighting for their rights.”

Mr Lissu urged the youth to choose leaders who will be brave enough to lead the struggle and not bring people who will be afraid once things become tough.