In politics, historical reverence does not shield one from present scrutiny. Freeman Mbowe, once hailed as the face of Tanzania’s democratic struggle, now faces serious questions about his role in the country’s ongoing pursuit of political transformation.
In January 2025, Mbowe lost the national chairmanship of CHADEMA to Tundu Lissu in a highly competitive election that he himself described as “free, fair, and historic.” He graciously congratulated the winner, offering the image of a mature statesman. However, his actions since that moment have not aligned with that narrative.
Since then, Mbowe has not made a single public appearance in court to show solidarity with Lissu, who faces politically motivated charges of treason and cybercrime. Some may argue that Mbowe is merely exercising his personal freedom to withdraw from political life. Yet, for a political figure of his stature, remaining completely silent during such a critical period raises fundamental questions about the responsibility of leadership.
Furthermore, his participation in certain government functions — and appearances alongside leaders of the ruling CCM — has fueled speculation. While such gestures could be interpreted as moves toward political reconciliation, in the current context of Tanzania’s fragile multiparty democracy, they risk being read as quiet complicity or, at worst, political abandonment.
More troubling is the fact that Mbowe still retains his seat as a permanent member of CHADEMA’s Central Committee — the party’s top decision-making body. This raises a broader question: can an individual who no longer actively contributes to the party’s mission or visibly supports its new leadership legitimately remain in such a critical position of authority?
READ MORE: Freeman Mbowe and the Optics of Absence and Presence
At a time when the country faces serious political challenges and the yearning for change intensifies, political silence becomes a burden. In a system where opposition spaces are already constrained, the absence of vocal, visible leadership from senior figures like Mbowe risks damaging morale among party members and weakening internal cohesion.
There is a need to distinguish between personal freedoms and public political obligations. While every citizen, including Mbowe, has the right to silence, political leadership demands a measure of clarity, accountability, and presence. For a leader of his legacy, silence carries weight — and consequences.
This article does not aim to demonise Mbowe as an individual, but rather to raise critical questions about the strategic value of such political behaviour at a pivotal moment in Tanzania’s democratic journey. CHADEMA and Tanzanians who believe in true democratic reform must engage in this conversation with honesty, courage, and foresight.
The views I expressed here are my own and do not reflect the official position of CHADEMA.
John Kitoka is a political analyst and the Director of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs for CHADEMA. 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.
