Supporters of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan have celebrated her endorsement as the flagbearer of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party for the upcoming October general election. However, critics argue that the process leading to her nomination violated the party’s rules and traditions.

On 18 January, CCM officially endorsed President Samia as its sole presidential candidate, a decision made six months earlier than the party’s usual timeline. Traditionally, CCM selects its presidential flagbearer in June of an election year, following the dissolution of parliament. The early endorsement has raised eyebrows, with some accusing the president of bypassing established procedures to secure the nomination.

During the extraordinary congress, CCM also named Emmanuel Nchimbi, the party’s secretary general, as Samia’s running mate. Notably, current Vice President Philip Mpango was reportedly excluded from the ticket at his own request. The meeting, initially convened to fill the vacant vice chairperson position following Abdulrahman Kinana’s resignation in July 2024, took an unexpected turn when the party appointed 80-year-old Steven Wassira, a veteran politician with decades of experience in both government and party roles.

Questions Over Constitutional Compliance

The congress’s decision to endorse Samia and Nchimbi has sparked debate over whether CCM adhered to its own constitution. Critics argue that the process deviated from standard protocols, while supporters maintain that the party acted within its rights.

To bolster her case, President Samia invited former President Jakaya Kikwete, a respected CCM member, to facilitate discussions during the congress. Kikwete played a key role in securing the endorsements, arguing that the congress had the authority to make such decisions. He emphasized that Samia was the party’s strongest candidate and urged the 1,924 delegates to approve her sole candidacy through a resolution.

“It is clear that CCM has nominated Samia Suluhu Hassan as its presidential flagbearer for the union presidency and Hussein Mwinyi for Zanzibar,” Kikwete stated. “What remains is ensuring that all legal processes, including those set by the National Electoral Commission (NEC), are followed.”

Kikwete defended the early endorsement, asserting that political parties have the right to nominate their candidates at a time they deem appropriate. “The congress has the authority to make such decisions under the party’s constitution. We only need to ensure that our actions comply with the law,” he added.

A Divided Party?

While the endorsement has solidified Samia’s position as CCM’s candidate, the unusual timing and process have exposed divisions within the party. Some members view the move as a necessary step to ensure stability and continuity, while others see it as a departure from the party’s democratic traditions.

As Tanzania prepares for the October elections, all eyes will be on CCM to see how it navigates these internal challenges and whether the early endorsement will strengthen or weaken its position in the upcoming polls.