In a bold and defining moment for CHADEMA’s political journey, veteran politician Tundu Lissu set the tone for the party’s leadership race by being the first to declare his candidacy for the party’s chairmanship.
This was followed by Freeman Mbowe, the party’s long-serving leader, finally declaring his candidacy for the top post a week after his deputy chairperson had done so. This sets the stage for a potentially dynamic contest within Tanzania’s leading opposition party.
Mbowe’s confirmation that he will run again after nearly two decades at the helm has raised significant interest. While some view his continued leadership as a stabilising force, others see the need for renewal and a fresh vision for the party.
CHADEMA’s handling of this leadership race will be closely scrutinised in a country where political figures often cling to power.
Many see Lissu, a fierce critic of the ruling government and a prominent figure in Tanzania’s political landscape, as a strong contender for the position. His decision has sparked both excitement and questions about CHADEMA’s internal democracy, given the party’s historical challenges with leadership transitions.
Commitment to democracy
The upcoming leadership contest offers CHADEMA a critical opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to internal democracy. For years, critics have accused the party of operating under a centralised structure, where decisions are made by a few influential individuals rather than through collective participation.
In the broader context of Tanzania’s political environment, characterised by entrenched incumbency and limited space for dissent, CHADEMA’s ability to embrace a transparent and participatory electoral process could set a powerful example.
Internal party democracy is not merely an internal matter for CHADEMA—it carries national significance. A political party’s internal practices often reflect its governance philosophy.
By fostering open competition and inclusivity, CHADEMA can strengthen public confidence in its democratic credentials and position itself as a credible alternative to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
Moreover, a peaceful and democratic leadership transition would give CHADEMA the moral authority to condemn autocratic tendencies within the government. By practising what it preaches, the party could demonstrate that its commitment to democracy is not merely rhetoric but a core value.
This would enhance its legitimacy in criticising undemocratic practices and offer an inspiring model for other political parties to emulate.
Lissu’s vision
One of the key issues Lissu has brought to the forefront is his anti-corruption stance and his ambition to implement radical structural reforms within CHADEMA. These reforms aim to decentralise power, ensure greater accountability, and enhance inclusivity in the party’s decision-making processes.
While these changes resonate with a significant segment of the party’s grassroots supporters and reform-minded members, they also risk polarising those less interested in change.
Lissu’s assertive push for internal reforms could alienate CHADEMA factions wary of upheaval or whose influence might diminish under a more decentralised system.
Although vital for promoting transparency and integrity, Lissu’s anti-corruption rhetoric may provoke resistance from individuals or groups who perceive his stance as challenging their entrenched positions.
This dynamic underscores the delicate balance CHADEMA must strike during this leadership transition. While reforms are necessary to revitalise the party and align it with democratic ideals, they must be implemented in a way that preserves unity and avoids deepening internal divisions.
The stakes extend beyond CHADEMA’s internal dynamics. Tanzania’s democratic transformation relies heavily on the vibrancy and credibility of its political opposition.
A strong opposition can hold the ruling party accountable, advocate for policy reforms, and represent diverse public interests. However, this role is undermined when opposition parties fail to practice democracy within their own ranks.
CHADEMA’s handling of this leadership transition will send a broader signal about the state of democracy in Tanzania. A transparent, competitive, and peaceful election process within the party can inspire confidence in Tanzania’s political future.
Conversely, internal strife or allegations of favouritism could reinforce public cynicism about political leadership.
CHADEMA’s moral authority gained through such a transition could also be a powerful tool for encouraging reforms. As a leading opposition force, the party’s success in setting a democratic standard could compel other parties to follow suit, ultimately fostering a healthier, more accountable political system.
High stakes
The stakes could not be higher for CHADEMA. As Tanzania’s leading opposition party, its ability to manage leadership transitions transparently will influence public perception and voter confidence. A smooth process could bolster CHADEMA’s standing as a credible alternative to CCM, while missteps could undermine its hard-won gains.
READ MORE: Is CHADEMA Falling into the Authoritarian Trap?
Lissu’s leadership style, should he win, is expected to bring renewed energy to the party. Known for his fiery rhetoric, confrontational approach, and reformist vision, he could reinvigorate CHADEMA’s grassroots base and appeal to younger voters.
However, his polarising persona and ambitious reform agenda may also alienate some factions within the party and the broader electorate.
As CHADEMA prepares for this critical transition, the party stands at a crossroads. The upcoming leadership election is not just about choosing a new chair but about demonstrating the party’s commitment to democratic principles and positioning itself as a viable alternative for Tanzania’s future.
Lissu’s bid offers hope for a dynamic and rejuvenated CHADEMA but also underscores the need for unity and strategic vision. By prioritising transparency and inclusivity, CHADEMA can prove its dedication to democracy.
This commitment could strengthen its internal cohesion and project it as a trailblazer in Tanzania’s political landscape.
Whether the party can successfully navigate this transition will have far-reaching implications, not only for CHADEMA but also for the broader trajectory of democracy in Tanzania.
A successful transition could redefine CHADEMA’s image, giving it the moral and practical authority to drive Tanzania’s democratic transformation and inspire broader political reform.
John Kitoka is an independent research consultant and writer on socio-economic and political affairs based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He’s available at kitoka2000@gmail.com. The opinions expressed here are the writer’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Chanzo. If you are interested in publishing in this space, please contact our editors at editor@thechanzo.com.
One Response
Quite right!