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The national Bavicha chairmanship election unfolded with intensity, featuring three initial candidates. Yet, in a surprising turn, one contender withdrew on election day, narrowing the field. Of the 317 votes cast, only one was invalid, leaving every valid vote to shape the decisive outcome.
Shija Samwel Shibeshi secured 112 votes, translating to 35.3%, while Deogratius Mahinyila clinched a commanding victory with 204 votes or 64% of the total.
Deogratius was inaugurated as the Bavicha National Chairperson amidst roaring applause from the majority of delegates, marking a definitive moment of triumph.
Delegates representing various regions displayed their confidence in the election process with enthusiastic cheers at every step.
Oversight by the party’s central election committee, led by the Bavicha Chairperson, ensured transparency and integrity. As Deogratius was declared the winner, the hall erupted with chants of "Lissu," an overwhelming display of support and approval from the delegates.
The election, however, was not without its challenges. Godbless Lema, former Arusha Urban MP and a native of Same, had previously voiced concerns, alleging attempts at manipulation through corruption and misconduct.
Despite these claims, the election proceeded smoothly, resulting in the election of all leaders from Zanzibar and the Mainland, except for the position of Vice Chairperson, where no candidate met the 50% threshold required by the rules.
Deogratius is now set to lead Bavicha as its chairperson for the term spanning 2025 to 2029. On the Zanzibar side, Abdallah Haji successfully secured the Vice Chairperson position.
For the Mainland Vice Chairperson role, the process took an unexpected turn. Juma Mohamed Ng’itu, also chairperson of the Lindi, Ruvuma, and Mtwara zone, withdrew his candidacy, leaving Necto Kitiga as the sole contender.
The Bavicha constitution provides a structured approach, granting official delegate status to winners of various positions while mandating further voting for roles left unfilled.
The rigorous election process stretched over 24 hours, commencing on Sunday afternoon and concluding late Monday evening, underscoring the delegates’ commitment.
In his closing remarks, the election supervisor commended all participants, saying, “I congratulate all the winners and competitors, and I urge you to protect Bavicha as it is the catalyst for the nation’s development.”
His statement resonated with the charged atmosphere, emphasizing the pivotal role of leadership in shaping the future.
The election highlighted Bavicha's vitality as a political force, with Deogratius Mahinyila’s victory heralding a new chapter.
The delegates left the election grounds energized, their chants and cheers signaling a collective resolve to uphold the principles and progress of Bavicha.