Mbowe, Lissu stress for unity, peace

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) held its much-anticipated intra-party elections yesterday, with candidates’ speeches focusing on unity, peace and the importance of safeguarding the party’s cohesion and longevity, despite differing viewpoints.

CHADEMA conducted election for key leadership positions, including the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson (mainland), during its General Meeting at the Mlimani City Conference Centre in Dar es Salaam.

The event also marked the party’s 32nd anniversary, with various guests in attendance, including party members, observers and representatives from several embassies, including the European Union.

In his address, the party’s Chairman Freeman Mbowe, who was seeking re-election against Vice-Chairman Tundu Lissu and Charles Odero, urged members to recognise their responsibility in protecting the party’s unity.

He said that, while differences in perspective are natural, maintaining the party’s cohesion is paramount.

“As we celebrate 32 years, we are concluding this process with the election of our leaders. It is our responsibility to protect this party. We will not allow it to be undermined, whether it’s because Mbowe’s votes were insufficient, or Lissu’s or Odero’s were lacking.

This election should be a celebration of democratic growth, not a battle. I believe our differences will be resolved by the end of this election,” Mr Mbowe said.

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He condemned the recent divisive strife within the party, calling it a shameful and unacceptable situation that tarnishes the party’s image.

“I wish you all a successful election. Let us conduct it joyfully and in unity and congratulate both the winners and those who did not succeed. Winning should not breed arrogance, but rather foster unity within our party,” he added.

On his part, Mr Lissu spoke about the peaceful relationship he and Mbowe have shared over the years, despite their differing perspectives.

Mr Lissu said that this harmony would continue after the election for the sake of the party’s unity, growth and development.

“For more than 20 years, despite our differences in perspective, Freeman Mbowe and I have never had a conflict or disagreement. Our bond will remain strong after today, regardless of the outcome,” said Mr Lissu.

“I wish you all a good life and every success. Regardless of the results, we will stand together in building our party.”

Earlier, CHADEMA’s Zanzibar Vice-Chairperson, Said Issa Mohammed, underlined the importance of respecting the party’s values and maintaining unity among both members and leaders.

“My silence and calm demeanor are to protect the dignity of our party and the efforts of those who have dedicated themselves to safeguarding it. I remain committed to CHADEMA and will never underestimate the work being done by this party,” said Mr Mohammed.