Siha MP Mollel ditches Chadema, plans to join CCM

Dar es Salaam. The Siha Member of Parliament, Dr Godwin Oloyce Mollel (Chadema), has ditched the opposition party, announcing plans to join the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
A video clip circulating on social media shows Dr Mollel made his decision to support CCM government’s efforts to protect natural resources.
“I would like to take this opportunity to tell you that I contested this seat in Siha, believing that besides developing the constituency, I will also advocate the country’s development in general, especially in protecting natural resources,” he said, adding: “I have seen the true intention of the CCM government in protecting natural resources. Therefore, today (yesterday) I resign my position as Siha MP to take part in the protection of natural resources and find solutions to grievances facing the poor.”
But, in a quick rejoinder Chadema issued a statement signed by director of Protocol, Communication, Ideology and Foreign Affairs John Mrema, saying they were surprised by the reasons given by Dr Mollel.
“It is very surprising because natural resources are protected in Parliament on behalf of citizens. By quitting Parliament, how is he going to protect natural resources after becoming an ordinary citizen?” he queried, adding: “I don’t know, which miracle he is expecting to make to protect natural resources because the Parliament is the institution entrusted by the Constitution and laws.”
However, Dr Mollel wasn’t ready to speak of the past, asking Siha residents to enter with him in the second phase of natural resources’ protection after joining CCM.
“I’m sure many residents will be shocked by this decision. But, you made me your eye; I have seen. Hopefully, you will not regret the decision I have made,” he said.
He thanked Siha residents for cooperation before and after becoming the lawmaker, noting that development projects implemented in the constituency were a result of good relationship between him, the government and citizens.
But, Mr Mrema called upon party members, who defected from the party to join CCM to give good reasons instead of just saying they were supporting the fifth government’s working hard slogan or improving people’s lives.
“How are you supporting such initiatives by becoming jobless? Chadema is still strong and won’t be bothered by a wave of few people, who insult their voters with reasons that do not reflect the national interest, but their own interests,” reads part of the statement.
He said Chadema would continue building the nation and a strong political institution, regardless of the hunger facing few of them, noting that hungry party members won’t reach their destination.
Dr Mollel becomes the second opposition MP to join CCM after former Kinondoni MP Maulid Mtulia (CUF) joined it a few weeks ago.