THE ruling party CCM’s Central Committee (CC) has commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her efforts in strengthening democracy in the country.
The CC’s compliments have come about a week since the special task force formed to collect stakeholders’ opinions on improving and strengthening multi-party democracy in the country presented a report to the Head of State.
CCM Ideology and Publicity Secretary Mr Shaka Hamdu Shaka revealed that in the statement which was availed to the media on the CC meeting held yesterday at the Chamwino State House in Dodoma under the chairmanship of President Samia.
“Among other things, the CC commended President Samia for receiving the report compiled by the taskforce she formed to coordinate multiparty stakeholders’ opinions,” Mr Shaka said.
“This is an exemplary milestone, since she assumed office; President Samia has been in forefront to oversee the implementation of Chama cha Mapinduzi Election Manifesto 2020-2025, strengthening multiparty democracy and national reconciliation,” he said.
Receiving the task force report last week President Samis said the government is committed to working on recommendations proposed by the team.
She said since the report contained several things, the government would have to organise several task forces, such as lawmakers, to look at political matters and the constitution, an assignment that may again involve some members from the task force.
“There are some issues raised that are easy and we can work on them quickly, but there are others that we have to look at the existing laws, what the limitations are, and where we can make changes based on your opinions. So, it is not that we have been handed a report today and start working on it tomorrow,” the Head of State said after receiving the report last week in Dar es Salaam.
The task force among others called for offering subsidy, amounting to 10 per cent of the subsidy that is being allocated every financial year to all political parties with permanent registration.
The task force also suggested for allowing political parties to conduct political rallies, calling for amending various laws including the Cap 258 of the political Parties Act.
The presidential team also suggested an increment of the budget for the office of the registrar of political parties for smooth execution of duties and responsibilities of the council of political parties.
In another development, the taskforce also suggested the need for political parties to consider gender balance by seeing a minimum of 40 per cent of gender representation and amendment of laws for the sake of establishing a ten – year limit for special seats for Members of Parliament and councillors.
Mr Shaka further said that the Central Committee also commended Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi for strengthening political relations in the isles.
He said Dr Mwinyi also formed a task force for coordinating collection of views and opinions on special issues regarding Zanzibar and it was proceeding well with its roles, a move that will strengthen democracy and national unity.
In another development, the CC received a preliminary report on preparations for of the 10th CCM General Assembly which is expected to be held in December this year.
He said the committee has been satisfied with various steps towards the preparation of the ordinary meeting which will be held according to the CCM constitution of 1977 , 2022 edition, section 99 (3).