CCM Women’s Wing urged to support female candidates

RUVUMA: CHAMA Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) National Chairperson, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called on the party’s Women’s Wing (UWT) to support capable women candidates at the grassroots level to contest for various posts in the upcoming local government and general elections.

She stressed the importance of backing those with genuine leadership qualities rather than individuals who prioritise personal interests.

Speaking yesterday at the conclusion of the UWT National Council meeting in Songea, as part of her six-day tour of Ruvuma Region, the Head of State called on  active participation of women vying in decision-making roles to ensure their voices are heard.

“I encourage everyone to support women who come forward to run for various positions in their communities, especially in hamlets and streets level. Let’s endorse more women to amplify our voices,” said Dr Samia.

The National Chairperson highlighted the necessity for women to uplift and support one another to form a strong coalition, which is vital for the party’s success in the upcoming 2025 general elections. She cautioned against supporting individuals who may be harbouring personal agenda.

Dr Samia said that unity within the party is essential to ensure CCM’s victory in the general elections.

She further commended several women’s groups outside the UWT for their positive advocacy of the government, urging the Women’s Wing to engage with these groups constructively rather than in opposition.

She also stressed the importance of integrity among leaders in upholding the respect of both the nation and the party, reiterating that CCM will continue to remove unprincipled leaders from its ranks.

To strengthen the party, Dr Samia underscored that CCM is collaborating with other political parties both on the continent and globally in sharing experiences and learning from one another to enhance the party’s effectiveness.

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Furthermore, she encouraged UWT members to embrace the ongoing reform within the party at all levels, asserting that the changes aim to strengthen the party.

She warned that resistance to change would lead to grievances, but assured that the reforms are in place to strengthen the party, recognising that no alternative party has yet emerged to lead the country.

On her part, UWT National Chairperson Ms Marry Chatanda has asked President Samia to continue with her efforts to increase women’s participation in political matters and top decision-making positions.

She emphasised the need for directives at the grassroots level to encourage women to contest for various leadership roles.

As the local government elections approach, Ms Chatanda expressed her belief that more women will step forward to contest and vote for other women.

“We strongly believe that there will be significant implementation of the Political Parties Act 2023, as enacted by Parliament. We request the party at national level to provide guidance to grassroot levels to nominate capable women to contest for at least 30 per cent of positions, so  as to enhance women’s participation in decision-making, especially in local government leadership,” she said.

Ms Chatanda commended President Samia for being a leading female political figure, demonstrating strong leadership and serving as a role model for many women.

“You have exemplified the capabilities of women, particularly in terms of resilience during this period of media freedom, freedom of expression and social media. Despite occasional misuse of this freedom, you have continued to lead the country successfully,” she added.

She highlighted various economic projects launched and implemented by UWT including income-generating initiatives across the country to fostering the Women Wing’s development.

Furthermore, she highlighted UWT’s utilisation of opportunities arising from the third five-year development plan (2021/2022–2025/2026), aimed at building a competitive economy and improving people’s livelihoods.

She said UWT has leveraged opportunities in various sectors, including education, construction, mining, health, renewable energy and combating gender-based violence.

Furthermore, Ms Chatanda called on women and Tanzanians to uphold the country’s peace by cooperating with security organs in unmasking any signs of unrest. She emphasised that women and children are the most affected during times of instability.