By Adonis Byemelwa
Mwanza – A prominent member of Chadema’s Central Committee, and former Tarime legislator, John Heche, has officially declared his support for Tundu Lissu’s bid to become the party’s next chairman while announcing his candidacy for the position of vice-chairman.
Speaking at a press conference in Mwanza on January 5, 2025, Heche emphasized the importance of leadership renewal in Chadema, urging Freeman Mbowe, the current chairman, to step aside after two decades at the helm.
"I have passed through the hands of great leaders like Dr. Slaa and Mnyika, and I deeply appreciate their guidance that has brought us to where we are today," Heche remarked.
He went on to praise Mbowe's tenure, stating, "I am truly grateful to Chairman Mbowe. I cannot and will not say anything negative about him. There will be a lot said in public, but I am not one to speak ill of him. I am known for being vocal in party meetings, and my views are well understood within Chadema. However, I have too much respect to criticize him publicly."
He described this as a pivotal moment for the party and insisted that fresh energy is necessary to build on the foundations laid by Mbowe and his predecessors, Bob Makani and Edwin Mtei. The Chadema chairmanship elections are set to take place on January 21, 2025.
Nevertheless, he argued that it is time for a change, stating that Chadema members overwhelmingly desire a new chapter. "We respect the work our chairman has done for two decades. He built us, he strengthened us, but his time has passed. It’s time for him to step aside and allow new leaders to take the mantle," Heche declared to applause from the audience.
He stressed that his support for Lissu stems from a shared vision of rejuvenating Chadema. He pointed to Lissu’s nationwide popularity and his fearless stance against corruption and injustice, which he believes have galvanized the party’s base.
The former Tarime MP dismissed claims of division within the party, emphasizing that his candidacy for vice-chairman aligns with Lissu’s bid for the top position. "I have no personal issues with any leader, including Chairman Mbowe. But the truth is clear: Chadema needs new leadership to continue thriving," he said.
He went on to highlight the groundswell of support Lissu has received from party members and ordinary citizens across Tanzania. Heche criticized narratives suggesting Chadema is unprepared for the elections, urging journalists to report accurately on the momentum seen at rallies.
"It’s absurd to claim we’re unprepared when you, the media, have covered the massive turnouts in Kahama, Kagera, Shinyanga, and elsewhere. Numbers don’t lie, and the people are with us," he said passionately.
Heche also took the opportunity to address concerns about electoral reform, reiterating Chadema’s firm stance of "no reform, no elections."
He criticized Tanzania’s electoral system as inherently flawed, citing the involvement of government officials in election processes as a major issue. He accused district directors and ruling party operatives of using state resources to tilt the scales in favor of CCM candidates, undermining the democratic process.
Heche warned that such practices not only disenfranchise voters but also erode public trust in the country’s institutions. "How can we expect free and fair elections when those overseeing the process are the same ones benefiting from rigging? It’s an insult to democracy," he asserted.
Drawing comparisons with neighboring countries, Heche warned of the consequences of electoral fraud and authoritarianism. He mentioned Mozambique, where President Filipe Nyusi allegedly learned vote-rigging tactics from Tanzania. "Look at Mozambique now—public anger over stolen elections has made the country ungovernable. If we don’t change course, we could face the same fate," he cautioned.
Responding to questions about the potential fallout from the Chadema elections, Heche expressed confidence in Lissu’s chances, stating that the overwhelming support for him makes the outcome almost inevitable.
Yet, he reiterated his willingness to work with any leader who emerges victorious to ensure the party’s unity. He brushed off concerns of factionalism, emphasizing that Chadema is too important to be derailed by personal rivalries. "This party is bigger than any individual. We all must protect and strengthen it, regardless of who leads," he said.
Heche also addressed criticisms of his earlier support for reconciliation efforts with CCM, explaining that his stance has evolved based on the ruling party’s actions.
He accused CCM of using reconciliation as a façade while continuing to undermine opposition parties and suppress dissent. "Reconciliation should be about accountability and building trust, not perpetuating lies and injustices," he said. He urged Tanzanians to remain vigilant and hold leaders accountable, regardless of their party affiliation.
Turning to the issue of corruption within political parties, Heche criticized the culture of patronage that often determines leadership positions. He called for a shift towards merit-based appointments, arguing that leaders must earn their positions through competence and dedication.
He pledged to uphold Chadema’s principles of integrity and transparency, stating that he would never resort to bribery to secure votes. "I believe in convincing people with ideas, not money. If you use money to win, you’ll spend your time repaying those who funded you, not serving the people," he said.
Heche didn’t shy away from criticizing CCM’s narrative that opposition rallies attract non-voters. He called such claims baseless propaganda designed to discredit Chadema’s growing popularity.
He also took a swipe at CCM MPs, accusing them of being more accountable to the government than to their constituents. He described them as products of a rigged system rather than true representatives of the people.
On the issue of parliamentary salaries, Heche dismissed claims that politics doesn’t pay. He detailed the substantial allowances and perks MPs enjoy, contrasting them with the meager salaries of teachers and other civil servants.
"Some people claim MPs make losses by entering politics, but the numbers don’t add up. Between salaries, per diems, and other benefits, MPs earn millions monthly. It’s time to stop misleading the public," he said.
Heche concluded by urging journalists to uphold their professional integrity and prioritize truth in their reporting. He criticized media outlets that act as cheerleaders for the ruling party, warning that biased journalism undermines public trust and stifles meaningful discourse.
He called on the media to be a voice for the voiceless, highlighting issues that matter to ordinary Tanzanians.
He ended his speech with a rallying call for Chadema supporters to remain united and committed to the party’s vision. He expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, saying that Chadema’s strength lies in its principles and its people. "This party is not just an opposition—it’s a beacon of hope for Tanzania. Together, we will ensure that it remains strong and true to its mission," he said.
Heche’s remarks highlighted his belief in Chadema’s potential to transform Tanzanian politics and his commitment to ensuring the party continues to thrive. His candidacy for vice-chairman represents a pivotal moment for Chadema as it seeks to balance continuity with renewal, all while navigating the challenges of a contentious political environment.