‘CCM constitutional changes strengthen intra-party democracy’

DODOMA: POLITICAL stakeholders have lauded constitutional amendments adopted by the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) during its recent Extraordinary Meeting in Dodoma.

They noted that these changes will strengthen intra-party democracy and enhance citizen participation in the party’s decision-making processes.

Key amendments include the expansion of the National Executive Committee (NEC) by increasing the number of appointed members from six to ten, with four women from Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

The changes involve changing the ten-cell structure to not only consider the number of members in a given locality but also the number of households.

Furthermore, the amendment eliminates the requirement for a form to be filled by anyone aspiring to become a CCM member, aligning with the digital era’s need for instant service delivery.

In an exclusive interview with ‘Daily News’, seasoned politician Ambassador Gertrude Mongella, who served as the Secretary-General for the Fourth UN World Conference on Women in Beijing, commended the move. She said that these amendments reflect the country’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality in politics, ensuring both men and women voices are heard.

She noted that the amendment to increase the appointed members of the NEC comes at a time when the world is marking the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration in 1995, which emphasised gender equality as a cornerstone for sustainable development.

She congratulated CCM Chairperson and President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for leading the Extraordinary General Meeting, which resulted in the party’s constitutional reforms.

These reforms will allow two appointed women from Tanzania Mainland and two from Zanzibar to join the NEC, thus amplifying women’s voices in the party.

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Amb Mongella also acknowledged President Samia’s commitment to championing women empowerment since taking office. Reflecting on her own political history, she recalled serving as a member of the first NEC under the leadership of the country’s founding father, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.

Despite having about 41 members, only seven were women and after a reduction, Amb Mongella was the sole woman remaining.

“We are pleased to see that CCM has increased the number of NEC members in efforts to strengthen representation, showing that as a country, we are moving forward,” Amb Mongella said.

She said that involving both women and men in political party leadership is crucial for achieving lasting and inclusive prosperity in the country.

Political analyst Mr Hamiduni Maliseli, based in Mwanza, said that CCM’s decision to eliminate the requirement for filling out forms for new members demonstrates the party’s commitment to attracting more supporters and voters ahead of the 2025 General Election.

He argued that removing this bureaucratic barrier will prevent delays and encourage more people to join the party.

Renowned academician Professor Costa Mahalu praised the reforms to CCM’s ten-cell structure, stating that they will allow party members to engage in party affairs based not just on their numbers but also on their residential areas. This will help foster unity and cooperation.

“Any democracy should engage effectively at both the national and grassroots levels,” he said.