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The Central Committee of CHADEMA, Tanzania’s leading opposition party, has doubled down on its call for constitutional and electoral reforms, insisting that these are essential to ensuring free and fair elections in 2025.
During a press conference on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, CHADEMA Chairman Freeman Mbowe outlined the party’s dissatisfaction with the electoral processes during the recently concluded local government elections and its plans for moving forward.
Legal Action for Systemic Reforms
Mbowe announced CHADEMA’s intention to file a case in the High Court to demand changes in Tanzania’s electoral systems, emphasizing the need for fairness, independence, and transparency. “We will file a lawsuit to push for a credible electoral framework nationwide,” he said, adding that the flaws observed in the 2024 local elections are no different from the irregularities reported during the 2019 elections. The chairman highlighted the party’s resolve to work with stakeholders to address these persistent issues.
“No Reforms, No Election”
As part of its campaign, CHADEMA is urging the government to prioritize reforms before the next elections. Mbowe expressed that the party will closely monitor any progress and collaborate with others to ensure meaningful change. “If no reforms are made, CHADEMA will stand firm on our position: ‘No Reforms, No Election,’” he declared, warning that the party would consider boycotting elections if the status quo remains unchanged.
Advocacy for a New Constitution
The CHADEMA Central Committee also reiterated its commitment to advocating for a new constitution, viewing it as a cornerstone for addressing the challenges within the country’s electoral and governance systems. Mbowe stressed the importance of engaging a wide array of stakeholders to build momentum for this cause.
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Evaluation of the 2024 Local Elections
The press conference also served as an occasion for CHADEMA to review the recent local government elections. The party argued that systemic flaws undermined fairness and credibility, pointing to issues such as lack of independence in electoral management and procedural inconsistencies. According to CHADEMA, these problems highlight the urgent need for reforms ahead of the 2025 general elections.
A Call to Action
Mbowe called on Tanzanians and other political actors to rally behind the demand for electoral reforms and a new constitution. “This is not just a CHADEMA issue; it is about the future of our democracy. We must work together to make these changes a reality,” he concluded.
With the 2025 elections on the horizon, CHADEMA’s stance reflects growing political tension and the urgency of reform.
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