Joseph Isangura
In a vibrant and politically charged gathering in the nation’s capital, the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has officially launched its 2025–2030 Election Manifesto, signaling a pivotal moment for Tanzania’s political future.
At the heart of the new agenda is a bold declaration: CCM intends to revive the constitutional review process, which was halted nearly a decade ago. The process initially began in 2012 under President Jakaya Kikwete, but came to a standstill in 2014 after a controversial walkout by opposition members of the Constituent Assembly.
Speaking during the high-level launch held in Dodoma, Prof Kitila Mkumbo, chair of the manifesto committee, emphasized that constitutional reform is central to CCM’s renewed vision for democracy and good governance.
“We are committed to deepening democracy,” Prof Mkumbo stated. “Reviving the constitutional review process is part of that commitment.”
Though no specific timeline was presented in the manifesto, observers view this inclusion as a significant shift. Civil society organisations such as LHRC and Tanzania Constitution Forum have consistently called for a new constitution, citing the inadequacy of the 1977 Constitution in representing a modern, multi-party democratic state.
Zitto Mwenge, a constitutional activist, notes, “The issue has lingered too long. The current system overly centralises power in the presidency, and people are hungry for accountability.”
According to a 2022 Afrobarometer survey, over 60% of Tanzanians expressed support for resuming the constitutional process.
Beyond the constitutional agenda, CCM’s new manifesto outlines nine strategic national priorities, including:
- Establishment of district-level industrial zones to promote localised industrialisation and youth employment
- Expansion of vocational training centres to meet the demands of international labour markets
- Greater investment in infrastructure, health, agriculture, and education
The manifesto targets the creation of six million jobs by 2030. Sectors earmarked for growth include digital technology, manufacturing, construction, and agribusiness.
A unique proposal involves the formation of specialised training hubs for Tanzanians seeking overseas jobs, especially in regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, with specific skills such as caregiving, maritime logistics, and coding in high demand.
Dr Richard Mbunda of the University of Dar es Salaam believes CCM’s mention of the constitution is strategic.
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“This is a calculated political tone shift. It appeals to the youth and middle class demanding reforms, while still presenting CCM as the guardian of peace.”
Young professionals at the launch voiced cautious optimism. “We need skills that are globally marketable,” said Maria Mrema, a recent engineering graduate. “If the government delivers, this could change lives.”
Meanwhile, civil society groups like THRDC have welcomed the manifesto but demand measurable progress. Onesmo Olengurumwa, the group’s national coordinator, urged the party to publish a 100-day roadmap if it wins the 2025 General Election.
Although President Samia Suluhu Hassan has yet to issue a formal directive on the constitution, her administration has taken steps toward political openness—lifting a long-standing ban on public rallies and relaxing media restrictions.
With the 2025 General Election on the horizon, CCM’s overture may prove to be both a rallying point for supporters and a test of political will.
The National Executive Committee is expected to convene in July to initiate public consultations and form working groups. If fully implemented, this could mark the most significant governance reform since the early 1990s when Tanzania reintroduced multi-party democracy.
