By Alfred Zacharia
ACT Wazalendo’s party leader, Dorothy Semu, has officially withdrawn her candidacy for the presidency of the United Republic of Tanzania, citing the need to preserve party unity and broader strategic interests.
Speaking before members of the party’s National Executive Council during a meeting held at the Hakainde Hichilema Hall at the party’s headquarters, Semu said her decision was guided by the desire to give space to candidates deemed more suitable for the moment.
“In recognition of the opportunities and the broader interests of our party, I have decided to withdraw my nomination as a presidential candidate and leave room for another member whom the party deems fit,” said Semu.
Her announcement came just a day after former CCM legislator Luhaga Mpina officially joined ACT Wazalendo. Mpina, who was received by senior party officials, has already expressed interest in contesting for the presidency under the ACT banner, alongside another contender, Aaron Kalikawe.
According to an official party statement, a Special General Meeting of ACT Wazalendo is expected to take place today, during which members will elect presidential candidates for both sides of the Union, Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.
For the Zanzibar presidency, the party has already endorsed its national chairperson, Othman Masoud Othman, as the sole candidate.
Semu’s withdrawal has triggered wide discussion among party members and political analysts, with many interpreting the move as a calculated strategy to pave the way for influential newcomers such as Mpina, who bring substantial political capital.
As the political landscape intensifies ahead of the October General Election, public attention is now firmly focused on ACT Wazalendo to see who will emerge as its presidential flagbearer for Tanzania Mainland.