Why this election is the litmus test for Tanzanias democracy

Tanzania’s presidential poll, set for October 25th this year, will make or break multi-partysim in one of Africa’s most conservative nations.

This has greatly been attributed to the spirited campaigns that have been put up by the opposition party – Chadema.

Chadema’s charismatic flag-bearer, Edward Lowassa, is seen as a the most possible candidate to redefine Tanzania’s politics.

Lowassa is not a newcomer in Tanzanian politics. He previously served as Prime minister, but he was ejected from the position by President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete over graft allegations.
According to Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, a lecturer at the Dar es Salaam University, majority of the voters want change that they say has not been forthcoming in the over 50 years of Chama Cha Mapinduzi’s leadership.

Prof. Mkumbo argues that though Mr. Lowassa is a former CCM member, his victory may define democracy and the future politics of Tanzania.

However, he says that very little may change bearing in mind that Lowassa unsuccessfully sought the CCM’s nomination. Prof. Mkumbo adds that Lowassa’s ideologies and game plan are similar to those of CCM.

Lowassa, who will battle it out for the presidency with seven other candidates including CCM’s John Pombe Magufuli, is seen as the first ever opposition candidate with huge influence. However, it is yet to be seen if his popularity translates into votes.

Prof. Kitila says that the youthful electorate could be the driving force for change in the country.

“Majority of the registered voters are now young people and are not interested in what party brought independence to the country and thus their vote can go either way,” he said.

“What these young people are looking for is leadership that can assure them of a good education, good healthcare and better jobs.”

Further to this, the Professor says that Kenya has been a source of inspiration to many African countries, Tanzania included, in changing the political landscapes.

“If Kenyans were able to unseat KANU from power after holding on to the presidency for 40 years, then anything is possible in Tanzania,” added Prof. Mkumbo.

“Kenya has a strong democracy, every country wants such competitive politics that can change the nature of leadership and the future of a country and its people.”

However, he says that Tanzania’s opposition may need to be more aggressive since CCM still holds numerical strength in Parliament and at Ward levels.

This year’s presidential poll has attracted eight contestants and is seen as a historic moment for the East African country.