By Adonis Byemelwa
A towering figure in Tanzanian politics and a man whose name resonates with both admiration and critique Stephen Wasira, has been nominated as the Vice Chairman of Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) for Tanzania Mainland.
The announcement, made during the party’s National Congress in Dodoma on January 18, 2025, marks yet another milestone in a career spanning over five decades.
Dodoma, often referred to as Tanzania's political heart, is alive with activity as CCM delegates, government officials, and party supporters converge to witness this pivotal moment.
The decision has sparked both excitement and murmurs of debate across the country, with party veterans, political analysts, and ordinary citizens weighing in on what Wasira's appointment means for CCM's future.
From the vibrant streets of Dar es Salaam to the more subdued discussions in Dodoma's corners, the news has brought out mixed feelings.
In Mombasa suburb, Mzee Abdallah Mkwaya, a steadfast CCM supporter for decades, reminisced about Wasira's early days, describing him as "a young man of immense promise, molded by the late Mwalimu Nyerere."
Mkwaya’s voice carried both pride and cautious optimism as he spoke of Wasira's nomination. However, in Gongo la Mboto, Mama Fatuma Nyangasa questioned whether the party's reliance on veteran politicians signals a lack of confidence in younger leaders.
"We respect him, but is this the time for new energy to lead us into the future?" she pondered. Such sentiments were echoed by Bwana Kassim Omary of Ukonga, who cautiously praised Wasira's extensive experience while expressing hope for a blend of wisdom and fresh perspectives in CCM's leadership.
Wasira’s political journey is nothing short of legendary. At just 25, he entered Parliament in 1970, representing the Mwibara constituency, and was appointed Deputy Minister of Agriculture by Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s founding father.
This meteoric rise set the stage for a career defined by resilience, adaptation, and a knack for navigating the often-tumultuous waters of Tanzanian politics.
Over the years, Wasira served under different administrations, taking on roles that ranged from Minister of Agriculture to Minister of State in the President’s Office for Relations and Coordination. Yet, his path has been anything but linear.
In 1995, after losing a CCM nomination for the Bunda constituency, he defected to the NCCR-Mageuzi party, challenging the establishment and winning a parliamentary seat.
Nevertheless, his victory was short-lived, as legal battles led to a by-election, and Wasira eventually returned to CCM. This chapter, often cited by both critics and admirers, underscores his ability to bounce back from setbacks and remain relevant in Tanzania’s evolving political landscape.
His return to CCM saw him reclaim his political footing, winning elections in 2005 and 2010, and earning key ministerial appointments under President Jakaya Kikwete.
Despite his impressive resume, Wasira’s nomination as Vice Chairman has reignited debates about CCM’s direction and its reliance on seasoned politicians. In Banana Ward, Ilala District, Dar es Salaam, Mzee Ali Salim viewed the move as a strategic choice.
"Wasira knows the party like the back of his hand. In times like these, when the country is heading into general elections, experience matters," he asserted. But not everyone is convinced. Mama Hadija Mapunda of Gongo la Mboto expressed concerns about the party’s future.
"Is this a step forward, or are we clinging to the past? We need leaders who can connect with the younger generation," she said, her voice tinged with a mix of respect and doubt.
The backdrop of Wasira’s nomination is as significant as the man himself. Dodoma, a city that has transformed into a hub of political activity, is buzzing with anticipation. CCM's National Congress, a two-day event, serves as a platform for the party to reflect on its achievements and chart its course.
Alongside Wasira’s nomination, delegates are reviewing reports on the implementation of CCM’s election manifesto and the performance of both the Union Government and Zanzibar’s Revolutionary Government.
The stakes are high, as Tanzania gears up for general elections later this year, and CCM aims to reinforce its position as the country’s dominant political force.
For Wasira, this moment is both a culmination of decades of public service and a testament to his enduring relevance.
His nomination comes after months of speculation and discussions within CCM’s inner circles. It was the party’s Central Committee and National Executive Committee (NEC) that endorsed his name, paving the way for his formal presentation to the National Congress.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who also serves as CCM’s Chairperson, made the announcement, signaling her confidence in Wasira’s ability to uphold the party’s ideals and steer it through the challenges ahead.
If confirmed, Wasira will join a distinguished list of leaders who have served as CCM Mainland Vice Chairman since Tanzania adopted multiparty politics. These include Rashid Kawawa, John Malecela, and Philip Mangula, figures whose contributions have shaped the party’s legacy.
Yet, the question remains: can Wasira’s vast experience translate into a unifying and forward-looking leadership style that resonates with a diverse and evolving electorate? His tenure will inevitably be scrutinized not just for its adherence to tradition but also for its ability to address contemporary challenges.
As CCM’s flags flutter across Dodoma and chants of unity echo in the Jakaya Kikwete Hall, the weight of Wasira’s appointment is palpable.
For party loyalists like Mkwaya, Nyangasa, Omary, and Salim, his nomination represents a blend of pride, hope, and cautious reflection. The streets of Dodoma may be alive with celebration, but beneath the surface lies a deep contemplation of what this decision means for CCM and Tanzania’s future.