In a surprising political move that has stirred debate across Tanzania, Zitto Kabwe, former leader of the opposition ACT-Wazalendo, has opted out of the 2025 presidential race and chosen instead to contest for a parliamentary seat.
To many political observers, this decision is not only unexpected—it is perplexing. It raises critical questions about ACT Wazalendo’s political strategy, the future of opposition politics in Tanzania, and whether there is an unspoken understanding between the party and the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
Zitto has been one of the most vocal and visible opposition figures in Tanzania’s political landscape. His eloquence, boldness, and populist appeal have made him a formidable force against the ruling establishment.
Over the years, he has positioned himself as a reformist with the vision and tenacity to lead Tanzania in a new direction. Thus, it was widely assumed that he would be the natural choice for ACT Wazalendo’s presidential ticket in 2025—a contest many see as crucial for the repositioning of the opposition.
Yet the party is now preparing to field a relatively unknown and, with all due respect to Dorothy Semu as a person, politically weak candidate for the highest office. The move has led many to ask: Why step aside? Why now?
Tactical retreat or surrender?
One school of thought sees this as a tactical retreat—a move calculated to conserve the party’s resources, avoid confrontation, and build strength for the future. Zitto’s choice to vie for a parliamentary seat could be interpreted as an effort to ensure continued representation in parliament, consolidate grassroots support, and maintain political relevance beyond 2025.
According to this line of reasoning, ACT Wazalendo may be playing the long game, avoiding a bruising presidential race it is unlikely to win, and instead focusing on strengthening its presence in parliament and local governments.
However, critics see things differently. To them, the party’s decision to field a weak presidential candidate is not strategy—it is surrender. They argue that by refusing to compete at the top, ACT Wazalendo is abdicating its role as a serious opposition force.
In Tanzanian politics, the presidential race is not just about winning—it is a powerful platform to shape national discourse, influence public opinion, and attract attention, votes, and funding. Without a strong presence in that race, ACT Wazalendo risks being sidelined both politically and financially.
Moreover, participation in the presidential race directly affects a party’s eligibility for public subsidies. Tanzanian law distributes political subsidies in part based on the number of votes garnered in presidential elections.
By fielding a non-competitive candidate, ACT Wazalendo is essentially forgoing a chance at much-needed funding. For a small party that lacks the financial muscle of CCM, such a decision appears self-defeating.
Deal with CCM?
This has led to speculation that there may be more at play than just political strategy. Some believe there may be a silent, informal agreement between ACT Wazalendo and the ruling establishment—what some call a “gentleman’s deal.”
READ MORE: ACT Wazalendo: Can Tanzania’s Left-Leaning Party Overcome the Odds to Challenge CCM in 2025?
Such arrangements, though unspoken and unofficial, are not new to Tanzanian politics. They typically involve mutual non-aggression pacts, strategic cooperation, or even behind-the-scenes support in exchange for political appointments, protection, or financial gain.
Zitto’s softened rhetoric towards President Samia Suluhu Hassan in recent months only fuels these suspicions. Once a fiery critic of government excesses and authoritarianism, Zitto has in recent times taken a more measured tone.
This shift has not gone unnoticed, and when coupled with ACT Wazalendo’s withdrawal from the presidential spotlight, it is prompting uncomfortable questions. Is the party going soft on purpose? Has Zitto struck a quiet deal to support Samia’s re-election bid, directly or indirectly?
This speculation is further strengthened by the nature of ACT Wazalendo’s presidential nominee—described by insiders as lacking charisma, national recognition, and political weight. Critics argue that such a candidate could not possibly pose a threat to CCM’s dominance, and is thus a safe choice for maintaining the status quo.
Yet, ACT Wazalendo leadership insists the move is part of a broader strategy to diversify its leadership and avoid over-reliance on one figure. According to party insiders, the party wants to build an institution that can survive and thrive beyond Zitto Kabwe.
READ MORE: A Decade of ACT-Wazalendo: A Journey Through Triumphs And Tribulations
By stepping back, Zitto may be giving space to emerging leaders within the party to test their mettle and grow politically. This explanation, while plausible, does little to reassure party supporters who fear ACT Wazalendo is ceding critical ground at a pivotal moment.
Decisive moment
The 2025 general election is shaping up to be a decisive moment for Tanzania’s democracy. After years of shrinking civic space and weakened opposition under previous regimes, there is renewed hope that multiparty politics can be revitalised.
In this context, the opposition’s role is not just to win seats—it is to challenge power, shape ideas, and hold the ruling party accountable. Fielding a weak presidential candidate undermines that mission.
In the final analysis, Zitto’s decision to avoid the presidency in 2025 leaves more questions than answers. Is this a strategic repositioning or a political retreat? Has ACT Wazalendo made a quiet deal with the ruling party, or is it genuinely focused on long-term institutional building?
Only time will tell.
But one thing is clear: in the eyes of many Tanzanians, politics is not just about power—it is about trust. And for ACT Wazalendo, regaining that trust may be more difficult than winning any election.
Macos Crabat is a pen name suggested by the author, who preferred to remain anonymous. Still, the opinions expressed here remain 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.
