We’re here for the good of Chadema and the nation, say G55

However, Chadema’s Northern Zone leadership issued a statement addressing concerns about leaders from the zone allegedly involved in the petition initiated by G55.

The statement, signed by chairperson Samwel Welwel, revealed that these leaders would be summoned to clarify their involvement.

“Leaders suspected of signing the petition will be summoned to confirm whether the signatures attributed to them are indeed theirs and whether they were directly involved in the petition,” Welwel said.

The statement emphasized the importance of this process, noting that if betrayal or efforts to undermine the party are discovered, the appropriate constitutional action will be taken.

“If there has been betrayal or an attempt to undermine the party, we will take firm action,” it read, urging members to remain calm and loyal during this process.

Meanwhile, G55, which includes aspiring parliamentary candidates and other party members, held a press briefing in Dar es Salaam to clarify its position.

A representative of the group, Mr Jon Mrema, explained that G55 was not trying to weaken the party but to strengthen it through internal reforms.

“Our goal is to strengthen Chadema, not weaken it. We are loyal members advising from within,” he said.

Mr Mrema clarified that the name “G55” was symbolic and did not refer to an exact number of members.

“It’s not about being 55 people. We are many, and the number keeps growing. Even ward councillor aspirants are joining.”

The group formed after an invitation from the Secretary-General to aspiring parliamentary candidates, but with no formal platform for engagement, they created their own space to discuss issues.

G55’s primary concern is the party’s approach to the “No Reforms, No Election” campaign.

The group believes that this position could isolate Chadema and suppress necessary reforms.

“We submitted our views formally, but there’s been no official response. That’s why we’re clarifying our position,” Mr Mrema said.

He also emphasized that much of the negative perception surrounding G55 stemmed from social media misinformation, where some party loyalists portrayed the group as disloyal.

“That’s not true. We are not opposing the party; we are amplifying necessary voices for Chadema’s growth.”

A major point of contention for G55 is the rejection of calls to boycott the upcoming elections.

Mr Mrema argued that such a move would be politically harmful for Chadema.

“You can’t skip elections without agents on the ground. If we don’t participate, who are we handing the country to?” he asked, stressing that boycotting elections would hand a victory to the ruling party without a fight.

“The 2020 elections occurred amid the same concerns, and we still participated. The idea that we should now withdraw is misguided.”

Mr Mrema emphasized that Chadema grew through participation, not withdrawal, and recalled the party’s success in 2005 when it fielded a presidential candidate. “That decision helped us build momentum. We should not lose sight of that,” he said.

The group also urged party leaders to sign the election code of ethics when the National Electoral Commission meets on April 12, warning that refusal to sign could later be used as an excuse for non-participation.

“If we’re serious about reforms, we must sign that code,” Mr Mrema said.

G55 also expressed concerns over growing intimidation within the party, with some members reportedly receiving letters threatening expulsion for supporting the group.

“That’s not democracy. Silencing internal voices makes us weaker, not stronger,” Mr Mrema added.

He emphasised that real leadership should embrace criticism and differing opinions.

“Only a dictator fears advice. Disagreeing with a slogan doesn’t make us traitors. It means we are thinking critically,” he added.

Mr Mrema further clarified that G55 was not trying to break away from Chadema.

“We are not forming a new party. We are advising our house—from within.”

The group also raised concerns about the transparency of Chadema’s fundraising drive, particularly the “Tone Tone” (drop by drop) campaign. G55 members were frustrated by a lack of updates on funds raised, with some questioning the campaign’s direction.

“We were told Sh65 million was raised, but weeks have passed without updates. People are starting to feel like they’re contributing to nothing,” Mr Mrema said.

He stressed that fundraising should be tied to clear electoral goals. “The public donates when they see we’re serious. If we’re uncertain about contesting, why should they donate?” Mr Mrema queried and emphasized the importance of preparing for the elections.

“If we delay, CCM becomes the only voice left standing. The nation loses,” he warned and urged the party’s leadership to act swiftly. Mr Mrema also challenged the leadership, specifically chairperson Tundu Lissu, to clarify whether he had formally withdrawn his candidacy if boycotting elections was truly the solution.

“We are here for the people of Tanzania and the future of Chadema.”