MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s main opposition party Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo has firmly rejected allegations by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties, insisting that it has not violated the Political Parties Act and that its actions are protected under constitutional and democratic rights.
In a formal response signed by Secretary General John Mnyika, the party dismissed claims that its leadership and supporters engaged in unlawful conduct, arguing instead that the matter is political in nature and should be handled through judicial processes rather than administrative sanctions.
The dispute follows accusations linked to statements attributed to Vice-Chairperson John Heche, particularly regarding planned demonstrations demanding the release of detained party chairman Tundu Lissu. The Registrar of Political Parties had argued that such remarks may amount to breaches of the law and could potentially threaten public order.
In its defence, Chadema said the allegations do not constitute legal violations and challenged the interpretation of Section 19(2)(f) of the Political Parties Act, describing it as inconsistent with constitutional freedoms of expression, association, and political participation.
The Office of the Registrar, in a letter dated May 7, 2026, had warned that the party could face possible sanctions ranging from suspension to fines, depending on its official explanation. The Registrar also raised concerns over remarks by some party officials, including comments linked to the “No Reform, No Election” campaign slogan, which authorities interpreted as potentially undermining public order and institutional stability.
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Chadema, however, maintained that its political messaging and mobilisation efforts fall squarely within the framework of a multiparty democracy, arguing that political expression cannot be criminalised simply because it is critical of the government or calls for reforms.
The opposition party further urged the Registrar to act strictly within the boundaries of the law and avoid what it described as attempts to restrict legitimate political expression. It also insisted that any disputes over interpretation of constitutional rights should be resolved through the courts rather than administrative enforcement mechanisms.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between opposition parties and regulatory authorities in Tanzania over the limits of political expression, public demonstrations, and the interpretation of laws governing multiparty democracy.
Legal analysts say the case could become an important test of how far political parties can go in mobilising supporters and criticising state institutions while remaining within the legal framework governing political activity.
