Chadema Contestants Demand Electoral System Reforms

Chadema leadership hopefuls are calling for sweeping electoral and constitutional changes to ensure a fairer, more inclusive General Election in Tanzania.

The candidates Freeman Mbowe, the incumbent chairman seeking re-election, Tundu Lissu, the outspoken Vice Chairman for Mainland Tanzania, and contender Odero Charles Odero—made their case on Thursday, January 16, at the Bawacha national conference held at the Ubungo Plaza Conference Hall in Dar es Salaam.

The women’s wing gathering brought together delegates from across the country to elect new leaders who will steer the wing for the next five years. This conference followed elections for Chadema’s youth (Bavicha) and elders (Bazecha) wings earlier in the week and will culminate in the party’s general assembly on January 21. The assembly will see the election of the party’s national chairman and vice chairpersons for Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Amid the political buzz, this year’s leadership race has drawn intense scrutiny, partly due to the public rivalry between Mr. Mbowe and Mr. Lissu. The contest has ignited discussions about Chadema’s internal dynamics and the broader challenges facing Tanzania’s political system.

During his address, Mr. Lissu pointed out the systemic challenges women face in Tanzania’s electoral process. “Women make up the majority of our population and are some of the most reliable voters,” he said. Yet, he added, their representation in Parliament and councils remains woefully low. Citing the 2020 General Election, he noted that only six percent of parliamentary seats were directly won by women.

Mr. Lissu criticized the allocation of special seats for women, especially in opposition parties, as insufficient. He argued that without significant constitutional reforms, the barriers preventing women from participating fully in politics would persist. “We need an electoral system that promotes inclusivity and fairness. Increasing women’s representation is not just about justice—it’s about strengthening our democracy,” he emphasized.

Mr. Mbowe and Mr. Odero echoed similar sentiments, with all three candidates urging Bawacha delegates to work toward a Chadema that embodies unity and support. They called for a culture of solidarity where party members stand by each other in times of personal and social challenges.

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Beyond their appeals for reform, the candidates celebrated the enthusiasm of the Bawacha delegates and highlighted the critical role women play in shaping Tanzania’s political future. They urged the delegates to continue being vocal advocates for change, particularly in the fight for gender equality and electoral transparency.

As Chadema prepares for its general assembly, observers and analysts are closely watching how the party will address internal tensions and position itself for the next General Election. The leadership contest has spotlighted not only the party’s potential but also its challenges in navigating issues of democracy, representation, and cohesion.

With the calls for reform resonating beyond the conference halls, Chadema’s leadership election has become more than just an internal affair it’s a reflection of the broader national struggle for a fairer, more inclusive political system.