editor
The Vice Chairman of Tanzania’s ruling party on the mainland, Stephen Wasira, has said that Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) believes in reconciliation—not revenge—and emphasized that no one, regardless of status or political affiliation, is beyond the reach of the law.
Wasira made the remarks during a lively public gathering in Urambo District, Tabora Region, part of his regional tour aimed at assessing the progress of the CCM manifesto, speaking with party leaders, and giving residents a platform to raise their concerns.
As the sun dipped behind the hills, the open-air meeting grew tense for a moment when a local resident, Shabani Warioba—who identified himself as a CHADEMA supporter—stepped up during the Q&A session. He asked a question that has been quietly on the minds of many: “What exactly did Tundu Lissu do wrong to be arrested? Could the CCM government help pave the way for his release?”
Wasira responded with calm authority. He explained that Tundu Lissu, the opposition leader and CHADEMA national chairman, had not wronged CCM as a party but rather had violated the laws of the Republic. Therefore, Wasira said, the matter is not political—it’s legal.
“Let me explain this in simple terms,” he said to the crowd, leaning slightly toward the microphone. “A policy of reconciliation does not cancel out the rule of law. And just because someone is a chairman or a high-ranking political figure, it does not mean they are above the law. We are all equal before it.”
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He continued, adding a personal touch to drive home the message. “If I were to wake up this morning and slap you across the face, would the police let me walk because I’m a CCM leader? Of course not. My position does not give me the right to break the law and go unpunished.”
His words prompted quiet nods from some in the audience, while others murmured in agreement. Wasira used the moment to reaffirm CCM’s stance: the party does not operate out of bitterness or grudge. Instead, it values stability, national unity, and lawful conduct.
“What people must understand is this: when you are accused of breaking the law, it is no longer about politics. It’s about justice, and justice must be handled by the appropriate legal institutions, not political platforms,” he said.
While he avoided discussing Lissu’s charges in detail, Wasira made it clear that Tanzania’s justice system must be allowed to function independently, without interference from politicians—whether in power or in opposition.
