Nomination process for Tanzania’s ruling party kicks off amid return of political heavyweights

Bulaya is one of 19 former Chadema MPs whose nomination was disavowed by the opposition party, despite serving in Parliament until President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced the date for its dissolution on Friday, June 27.

Ex-ministers in race

The nomination process has also seen the return of former Ministers for Natural Resources and Tourism, Lazaro Nyalandu and Ezekiel Maige, both of whom are seeking to re-enter Parliament under the CCM ticket.

In Iringa Urban, former Chadema MP, Mr Peter Msigwa, who recently decamped to CCM, is once again vying for the seat he once held for two terms.

Deputy PM’s twin and ex-RC join the race

In Geita, the twin brother of Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko, Mr Kulwa Biteko, has resurfaced in the race, this time targeting the newly established Katoro constituency.

In 2020, he led the CCM primaries in Busanda but did not make the final shortlist. Former regional commissioner Robert Gabriel and NEC member Chacha Wambura are also eyeing Geita Urban.

CCM bars showy form collection ceremonies

The process is being conducted under new party guidelines that prohibit aspirants from organising processions or gatherings during form collection, in an effort to discourage internal factionalism. Instead, all activities have proceeded quietly, with nomination forms issued at ward, district, and party union offices depending on the position sought. Fees remain unchanged: Sh500,000 for parliamentary aspirants and Sh50,000 for councillorship.

Tulia enters Uyole, Makonda targets Arusha Urban

In Mbeya, Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Tulia Ackson has picked up a nomination form for the new Uyole constituency, while former Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda is seeking to unseat Mrisho Gambo in Arusha Urban.

Chongolo resurfaces in Makambako

In Njombe, former CCM Secretary General Daniel Chongolo has returned to frontline politics, seeking nomination in Makambako.

Meanwhile, in Lupembe and Ludewa, several other former and sitting MPs are seeking to defend or reclaim their seats, among them Edwin Swale and Joseph Kamonga.

Competition stiffens in Ilemela, Sengerema

In the Lake Zone, competition has intensified in constituencies such as Ilemela, where incumbent MP Dr Angeline Mabula will face off with CCM National Executive Council (NEC) member Leonard Qwihaya. In Sengerema, former presidential aide Ngusa Samike is among those seeking the party’s nod, alongside Dk Omari Sukari and Mateso Tangazo.

Magufuli’s daughter joins the race

Notably, daughter of the late President John Magufuli, Jesca Magufuli, has picked up a nomination form under the CCM youth wing for a Special Seats post.

Yanga President, journalist Akilimali join Dar es Salaam race

In Dar es Salaam, Yanga SC President Hersi Said is seeking the CCM nomination for Kigamboni, while chair of the Youth Wing’s Economic Affairs Committee, Maria Sebastian, is vying for the Kawe seat. Other notable aspirants in the region include journalist Angel Akilimali in Kivule and incumbent Ukonga MP Jerry Silaa, who is seeking a second term.

Youth dominate Zanzibar nominations

In Zanzibar, more than 45 individuals had collected forms for parliamentary and representative positions by the evening of June 28, with over 60 expressing interest in councillorship roles. Party officials say the majority of those stepping forward are young people, signalling a generational shift in the Isles' political landscape.