By Alfred Zacharia
The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has endorsed businessman Salum Kinyoro, popularly known as "Kibakuli", as its candidate for the Handeni Town parliamentary seat in the upcoming general election.
The announcement was made on July 29, 2025, by the party’s Ideology and Publicity Secretary, Mr Amos Makala, during a press briefing held in Dar es Salaam.
Mr Kinyoro emerged as the party’s preferred candidate following a competitive nomination process.
He is expected to face five other contestants in the race for the constituency.
The selection of Mr Kinyoro reflects CCM’s continued strategy of fielding candidates with strong grassroots appeal and business acumen. The party appears to be banking on his local influence and private sector experience to secure victory in the constituency.
Handeni Town has been a politically active constituency, with a mix of urban and rural voters.
Mr Kinyoro’s nomination sets the stage for a highly contested race, with voters expected to scrutinise each candidate’s track record, vision, and ability to address pressing community issues, including infrastructure, youth unemployment, and access to social services.
The CCM announcement is part of the wider rollout of parliamentary candidates ahead of the 2025 general elections.
The party has pledged to ensure free and fair internal processes to maintain unity and public trust as campaigns begin across the country.