Joseph Isangura
Former Member of Parliament and former ACT-Wazalendo party leader Zitto Kabwe has officially launched his political comeback, collecting nomination forms on Sunday as he prepares to contest the Kigoma Urban parliamentary seat in the 2025 general elections.
The event, held at the party’s local office, drew a crowd of supporters and regional party leaders. Kabwe received the forms from constituency secretary Said Sudi, signaling his intent to return to active politics five years after losing the seat during the highly contested 2020 elections.
Speaking shortly afterward, Zitto explained that his decision to run again was inspired by concern over the region’s worsening economic conditions and allegations of corruption within the Kigoma Municipal Council.
“The economy here is in distress,” he said. “People in Kigoma—especially women—have consistently called on me to return and be their voice again. Their confidence in my leadership is something I can’t ignore.”
Known nationwide for his advocacy and strong positions on governance issues, Zitto said he intends to help restore transparency at both local and national levels. He encouraged residents to vote for ACT-Wazalendo councillors who can help bring reform from the ground up.
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“The problem of corruption in the municipal council isn’t just a leadership issue—it’s hurting ordinary people,” he said. “If we want real change, we have to start from the grassroots. That means electing councillors who serve, not steal.”
While expressing concern over Tanzania’s electoral environment since 2019, Zitto urged voters not to disengage from the process. “We’ve never had an easy fight in Kigoma Urban. But we’ve never backed down either. We must face these challenges, not run from them.”
His candidacy has revived enthusiasm within ACT-Wazalendo, with supporters at the event describing him as a committed and approachable leader.
Zitto stepped down as party leader in 2024 after completing two terms, handing over to Dorothy Semu. Nevertheless, he has remained influential. During ACT-Wazalendo’s 10th-anniversary celebrations, he was endorsed as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2025 elections—an offer he said he would accept if it aligned with the aspirations of Tanzanians.
