MWE Correspondent
Veteran lawmaker Mussa Zungu is on the verge of becoming Tanzania’s eighth Speaker of Parliament after members of the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), overwhelmingly endorsed him as their official candidate ahead of the 13th Parliament’s opening session.
In a tightly contested internal election held on Sunday, Zungu, the Ilala MP-elect, secured an emphatic victory with 348 votes, defeating his challenger, Stephen Masele, who managed just 16 votes. The outcome came as a surprise to some political observers, who had earlier viewed Masele as a formidable contender within CCM’s parliamentary ranks.
If confirmed by the full National Assembly of Tanzania during the official election on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Zungu will join a line of distinguished leaders who rose from the position of Deputy Speaker to that of Speaker — a tradition previously upheld by Anne Makinda, the late Job Ndugai, and Dr. Tulia Ackson.
Zungu’s victory followed a decision by the CCM Central Committee to shortlist three prominent figures for the role: outgoing Speaker Dr. Tulia Ackson, Mussa Zungu, and a third unnamed aspirant. The race remained close until November 7, when Dr. Tulia unexpectedly withdrew from contention, paving the way for Zungu to become the frontrunner.
Speaking to reporters after the internal vote, party insiders described Zungu’s triumph as “a unifying choice” that reflects his long service and steady leadership style. Zungu has been a key figure in parliamentary affairs, known for his composure, discipline, and loyalty to the ruling party.
With CCM holding a commanding majority in Parliament, Zungu’s confirmation is seen as virtually guaranteed. His election is expected to reinforce the party’s legislative agenda and ensure continuity in parliamentary leadership following Dr. Tulia’s tenure.
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Political analysts say Zungu’s expected elevation marks another milestone in CCM’s internal succession culture, where experienced deputies often take on top leadership roles. The Chama Cha Mapinduzi has maintained this tradition for decades, emphasizing stability and institutional continuity within the legislature.
The new Speaker will face several pressing challenges once in office, including strengthening parliamentary oversight, modernizing legislative procedures, and ensuring that debates remain inclusive in a House largely dominated by one political force.
The upcoming session of the 13th Parliament of Tanzania is expected to set the tone for the government’s legislative agenda for the next five years — and Zungu’s leadership could play a defining role in shaping that future.
