By Adonis Byemelwa
Dar es Salaam – In a strategic move that has drawn both praise and scrutiny, Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi, a seasoned figure in Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has been named as the running mate of President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the 2025 general election.
The decision notably sidelines the long-standing Vice President, Dr. Philip Mpango, who assumed the role following the death of President John Magufuli.
While some insiders claim Dr. Mpango struggled to navigate the political acrobatics required to counter the opposition, others suggest he may have declined the position, fueling speculation about the shift in CCM’s leadership dynamics.
President Samia, who remains unopposed within CCM for the presidential ticket, is now positioned to strengthen her mandate with a trusted and seasoned political ally at her side.
Nchimbi’s selection has sparked widespread debate across the political spectrum, with CCM loyalists hailing it as a masterstroke while critics, particularly from the opposition Chadema, have been quick to question its implications for Tanzania’s political landscape.
As a veteran of Tanzanian politics, Nchimbi’s career spans decades, with key positions in the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Youth Development, and other vital portfolios.
His name is synonymous with unwavering loyalty to CCM, and his ability to navigate complex political dynamics has earned him respect among party insiders.
Nchimbi’s influence within CCM is seen as both stabilizing and forward-thinking, making him an ideal choice to complement President Samia’s leadership as she seeks a renewed term in office.
For her part, President Samia has maintained a steady course of governance, focusing on economic development, social inclusion, and maintaining Tanzania’s regional influence.
Her decision to select Nchimbi reflects her intent to solidify unity within CCM and leverage his extensive political experience.
The choice underlines her commitment to continuity and the strategic consolidation of power as she remains uncontested for the top position in the ruling party.
However, the announcement has not been without its share of criticism. Opponents have raised concerns about what they perceive as CCM’s reluctance to introduce fresh faces into its leadership.
Critics within Chadema argue that Nchimbi represents the entrenched political elite, which they believe stifles innovation and reform.
They have questioned whether his appointment signals a missed opportunity for CCM to reflect the voices of younger, more diverse segments of the population.
“This is the same cycle of leadership we’ve seen for years,” said a Chadema supporter in Dar es Salaam’s Gongo la Mboto neighborhood. “We need new perspectives, not the same recycled figures who have been in the system for decades.”
Despite such criticisms, Nchimbi’s defenders within CCM point to his track record as evidence of his capability.
Known for his disciplined approach and deep understanding of governance, Nchimbi has often been described as a steady hand during times of political turbulence.
His supporters argue that his partnership with President Samia will ensure stability and continuity, which are crucial for Tanzania’s continued growth.
Mzee Juma Bakari, a CCM elder from Ukonga, dismissed the criticisms from the opposition as baseless. “Nchimbi has been a servant of the people for years. He knows the challenges our nation faces, and he’s proven he can deliver. This is not about change for the sake of it; it’s about building on what we’ve achieved,” he said.
However, others remain skeptical. Some political analysts suggest that CCM’s decision to run unopposed within its ranks reflects a lack of robust internal debate.
They question whether this approach fosters a healthy democratic culture or simply reinforces a perception of CCM as a monolithic political machine.
In contrast, Chadema continues to paint itself as a party of reform, despite its internal struggles. Critics from Chadema accuse CCM of stifling political competition, claiming that the ruling party’s dominance leaves little room for genuine opposition.
Nevertheless, CCM’s supporters argue that the party’s strength is a testament to its legacy and governance record.
Kariakoo market trader and CCM supporter Mama Salama Hussein said, “People criticize CCM because it’s easy, but when you look at what it has achieved, it’s clear that the party has built this country. Nchimbi and Samia will take us even further.”
The announcement of Nchimbi’s running mate position has also drawn attention to CCM’s broader strategy. Analysts see the pairing of President Samia and Nchimbi as a calculated move to solidify support across different regions and demographics.
While President Samia has been praised for her diplomatic acumen and focus on development, Nchimbi brings a more grounded, grassroots connection that complements her leadership style.
The timing of this announcement, just months before the official campaign season, has been interpreted as a signal of CCM’s confidence in its organizational strength. The party has long been known for its ability to mobilize resources and maintain a cohesive message, traits that its opponents struggle to match.
President Samia’s unopposed status within CCM is both a reflection of her consolidated leadership and a point of contention among her critics.
While her supporters argue that it demonstrates her effectiveness and widespread acceptance, detractors suggest it raises questions about the inclusivity of CCM’s decision-making processes.
In the coming months, Tanzania’s political landscape will likely be dominated by the narratives surrounding the Samia-Nchimbi ticket.
For CCM, it represents a continuation of its dominance and a reaffirmation of its governance philosophy. For the opposition, it presents another opportunity to question the status quo and push for an alternative vision.
As Tanzanians prepare for the 2025 elections, one thing remains clear: the partnership between President Samia and Nchimbi will shape not only the campaign but also the broader discourse about Tanzania’s political future.
Whether viewed as a strategic alignment or a symbol of entrenched power, the Samia-Nchimbi ticket is poised to dominate the national conversation.