Kisesa MP Luhaga Mpina delivering remarks, right is NEC Secretary for Ideology, Publicity, and Training, Amos Makalla.Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
Simiyu: Kisesa MP (CCM), Luhaga Mpina, has brought to light three key issues affecting farmers and livestock keepers, urging the government to address them to ensure justice for citizens.
Speaking in Meatu, Simiyu Region, Mpina highlighted cases where livestock keepers who won court battles to reclaim their confiscated livestock have not yet received them, despite winning the cases years ago.
He also raised concerns about farmers being charged Sh 300 per kilogram of cotton to cover input costs, while a kilogram of maize seeds is sold at Sh 10,000, an amount that many farmers find unjust and unaffordable.
Mpina noted that some livestock keepers won their court cases three years ago, yet they are still awaiting compensation for their confiscated animals. “Their rights are being denied,” he said, urging the government to act swiftly.
Responding to these grievances, CCM Secretary-General Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi expressed his firm commitment to the rule of law and promised to ensure justice is served. “If they won their cases, there is no reason for us to turn a blind eye. I will personally follow up to make sure their rights are restored,” said Nchimbi.
Mpina also voiced his dissatisfaction with the high cost of maize seeds, reiterating his demand to understand why the price has reached Sh10,000 per kilogram. Furthermore, he dismissed claims made by Simiyu Regional Commissioner Kenani Kihongosi that some politicians were involved in distributing seeds to non-farmers, an action alleged to have caused shortages.
Mpina insisted that no politicians had distributed seeds and demanded that the government provide clarity on the high seed prices.
In his defense, RC Kihongosi responded by acknowledging that the government would soon provide subsidies for maize seeds to make them more affordable for farmers. He assured that measures are being taken in collaboration with the Cotton Board to resolve the issue of the Sh 300 deduction on cotton. Kihongosi also promised that anyone found distributing seeds improperly, whether a politician or not, would face legal consequences.
Mpina, however, remained unsatisfied with the regional commissioner’s answers, accusing him of shifting blame without providing a solution. He called for an immediate resolution to the seed price issue, which he emphasized was straining farmers financially.
On a lighter note, Dr. Nchimbi acknowledged Mpina's persistence, recalling their days in university together, where Mpina was known for his strong-willed nature. Nchimbi also stressed the importance of unity, peace, and national solidarity, emphasizing that these values are essential for Tanzania’s continued progress.
As part of his broader remarks, Nchimbi praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan's leadership, particularly her efforts in securing funds for large-scale development projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project. He lauded her for continuing the legacy of late President John Magufuli and ensuring the successful completion of these critical projects. “We must continue supporting her to serve our country with dedication and love, ensuring further development,” Nchimbi added.
Regarding the upcoming local government elections, CCM National Executive Committee Secretary for Ideology, Publicity, and Training, Amos Makalla, announced that the party would use a three-pronged strategy (Mobilization, Registration, and Agent Placement). He urged citizens to register between October 11 and 20 to participate in the elections and assured them that CCM would field qualified candidates for the positions.