DAR ES SALAAM: The Chairman of the CHADEMA Party, Freeman Mbowe, has stated that the decision to run for another term as party chairman rests solely with the party’s members and leaders emphasizing the importance of internal consensus.
Speaking on Tuesday during a press briefing to present an evaluation and ten resolutions from CHADEMA’s Central Committee regarding the November 27, 2024, local government elections, Mbowe clarified that the party’s constitution allows anyone to vie for leadership positions.
“Our party’s constitution does not bar anyone from contesting for any position. Whether you run or not is determined by mutual understanding among party members and leaders. Some individuals are desperate to see CHADEMA in conflict, but anyone is free to contest for any position they desire,” he said.
Mbowe dismissed external concerns about internal party matters, noted: “Those who will tell me, Mbowe, to run are the members and fellow leaders. Whether I run or not is our internal business, what does it matter to you? Let us handle our CHADEMA the way we see fit.”
He further clarified that CHADEMA does not impose restrictions on those wishing to contest for leadership.
“Anyone who feels ready to contest is free to do so. The rest is about internal agreement,” he added.
When asked if he intended to seek re-election, Mbowe maintained that he had not yet made a decision and called for patience.
“I have not announced whether I am running or not. Why not wait until the time is right? What’s the rush? My silence doesn’t stop anyone else from expressing their intentions. Some things are still being prepared internally wait until they’re ready,” he explained.
He also shared details of CHADEMA’s evaluation of the local government elections, revealing a significant number of disqualifications among the party’s candidates.
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In the assessment of the local government elections, Mbowe revealed that 1,152 out of 3,888 ward chairmanship candidates (30percent) were disqualified, while 6,263 out of 10,438 village chairmanship candidates (60percent) were also disqualified.
Furthermore, Mbowe mentioned that 28,120 out of 47,915 hamlet chairmanship candidates, representing 59 percent, were disqualified.
Despite these setbacks, Mbowe commended CHADEMA candidates and those from other opposition parties who participated in the elections, acknowledging their resilience and determination.
Mbowe also urged other stakeholders, to publicly share their views on the conduct and fairness of the local government elections.
