By Adonis Byemelwa
Shinyanga--The Serengeti Regional Executive Committee of the opposition party Chadema, during its meeting on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, resolved to remove Mr. Emmanuel Ntobi (pictured) from his position as the party’s Shinyanga Regional Chairman.
The decision was made following allegations of misconduct and a breach of ethics, including defamatory remarks against the party’s national leadership on social media platforms.
Speaking to Jambo TV on the night of January 9, 2025, Lucas Ngoto, Chairman of Chadema's Serengeti Leadership Council, confirmed the decision, emphasizing that it adhered to legal procedures.
Ngoto explained that Ntobi was given ample opportunity to defend himself against accusations of disrespectful and dishonorable comments targeting the party’s national leaders.
Ntobi, who had previously been suspended from his role for one year in 2023 over disciplinary issues, has openly aligned himself with and campaigned for Freeman Mbowe to regain the Chadema national chairmanship.
Nevertheless, his recent social media posts have sparked controversy, allegedly aimed at tarnishing the reputation of Vice Chairman Tundu Lissu, who is also running against Mbowe in the forthcoming national leadership election scheduled for later this month.
Among Ntobi’s contentious statements are accusations labeling Lissu as a “gossip-monger” and “blabbermouth,” alongside claims that Lissu has orchestrated a group named "Voice of the People" in collaboration with well-known online figures, ruling CCM officials, national security agents, and members of the diaspora to undermine Mbowe.
Ntobi has also made inflammatory insinuations about Lissu’s character, particularly regarding his interactions abroad. In one post, Ntobi suggested, “Soon, he’ll expose the secrets of his foreign benefactor,” and in another, “Didn’t we tell you your man fled to his European sponsor? Where is he now?”
This latest incident underscores the growing intra-party divisions within Chadema, particularly as the leadership election approaches. The rivalry between supporters of Freeman Mbowe and Tundu Lissu has intensified, with allegations of factionalism threatening to derail the party’s unity.
Observers note that the tensions highlight deeper ideological and strategic differences within Chadema. While Mbowe’s supporters emphasize his experience and long-standing leadership, Lissu’s camp advocates for transformative leadership and a stronger stance against the ruling CCM government.
These internal disputes are playing out publicly, often spilling over onto social media, where party members and supporters exchange accusations and personal attacks. The situation raises questions about Chadema’s ability to maintain cohesion and effectively challenge the CCM in the next general elections.
The removal of Ntobi, though grounded in disciplinary concerns, is seen by some as a reflection of the broader struggle for control within Chadema. Analysts warn that failure to resolve these disputes amicably could weaken the party’s public image and erode confidence among its supporters.
As Chadema prepares for its pivotal election later this month, the party faces a critical juncture. Resolving its internal strife and demonstrating unity will be essential if it hopes to consolidate its position as a credible alternative to the CCM and regain its momentum in Tanzania’s political landscape.
