Three cadres seen as favorites in new CCM vice chair race

Dar/Dodoma. As the ruling CCM prepares for a special general assembly on January 18 to 19, 2025, former Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda is emerging as the likely candidate to succeed Abdulrahman Kinana as Vice Chairman for Mainland Tanzania.

Reports gathered by The Citizen’s sister newspaper Mwananchi, mention other figures being considered for the role, including veteran politician Stephen Wasira and the CCM Chairman for Tanga Region, Rajab Abdallah.

The position has been vacant since July 28, 2024, when Mr Kinana submitted his resignation letter to the party’s chairperson, President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Mr Kinana, who had previously served as CCM Secretary General, was elected vice chairperson on April 1, 2022, after receiving 1,875 votes.

He replaced Philip Mangula, whose resignation was approved by President Hassan.

The vacancy has now remained for nearly five months, an unprecedented situation in the party's history.

Under the CCM Constitution, the vice-chairperson plays a crucial role in assisting the chairperson with party duties and also serves as the chairperson’s senior advisor.

Sources within the government and CCM indicate that Mr Pinda, 76, is the most likely candidate.

A senior CCM leader, speaking anonymously, stated, “We don’t need to go to the general assembly with many names; Mr Pinda is the best choice. He knows the party, is calm, and remains free of controversy.”

The leader further highlighted that Mr Pinda’s experience makes him particularly suited for the role ahead of the challenging 2025 general election.

“We need a vice-chairperson who can ensure ethical leadership during elections. Mr Pinda has no factions or personal issues; he’s a man of integrity,” said the CCM cadre.

Mr Pinda’s biography

Born on August 12, 1948, in Rukwa Region, Mr Pinda is popularly known as "Mtoto wa Mkulima" (Son of a Farmer).

He entered politics in 2000, representing Mpanda East Constituency in Parliament.

From 2005 to 2008, he served as Minister for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG).

In February 2008, following the Richmond scandal and the resignation of Prime Minister Edward Lowassa, he was appointed the new Tanzania premier, a role he held until 2015.

READ: Analysts divided on Kinana’s exit as successors list takes shape

Since retiring, Mr Pinda has remained an influential figure within CCM, respected for his wisdom and professionalism.

Other candidates

Also being discussed within CCM circles are former senior ministers, including Stephen Wasira, who served under Presidents Julius Nyerere, Ali Hassan Mwinyi, Benjamin Mkapa, and Jakaya Kikwete.

Additionally, the Tanga Region CCM Chairperson and a newly appointed member of the Central Committee, Mr Rajab Abdallah, is considered a potential candidate.

What political analysts say

Political analysts are divided on the most suitable candidate for the position.

A political science lecturer at the University of Dodoma (UDOM), Dr Conrad Masabo, suggested that figures like Mr Pinda and Mr Wasira should retire and remain in advisory roles rather than return to high office.

“CCM has many capable leaders; it’s time to let others, like Mr Abdallah, step forward,” he said.

His University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) counterpart, Dr Aviti Mushi supported the idea, saying Mr Pinda was the best choice due to his leadership experience and political acumen.

Meeting preparations

CCM Secretary for Ideology, Publicity, and Training, Mr Amos Makalla, announced on Thursday, January 15, 2025, that the Central Committee and National Executive Committee would convene in Dodoma on January 17, 2025, in preparation for the special general assembly.

Mr Makalla clarified that the position of the vice-chairperson would not be contested and that the Central and National Executive Committees would recommend names of candidates.

The selected candidate's name will then be presented to the general assembly meeting for approval.