ACT Wazalendo has expressed concern over a recent communication issued by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to the opposition party Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), which required the party to explain why it should not face penalties, including possible suspension, over alleged breaches of the Political Parties Act.
The letter, dated 7 May 2026 and referenced HA. 322/362/16A/22, warned CHADEMA over what the Registrar described as violations of legal requirements governing political parties in the country.
In a statement responding to the development, ACT Wazalendo said it was concerned that the approach taken by the Registrar risked undermining fair political competition and equal application of the law among parties.
The party noted that political engagement and public debate are normal elements of a multiparty democracy and should not automatically attract punitive action unless there is a clear and proven legal breach.
ACT Wazalendo further called for consistency in the enforcement of political party regulations, stressing that all parties, including the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), should be held to the same standards under the law without favoritism or selective application.
The statement also emphasized the importance of strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that regulatory bodies operate in a transparent and impartial manner.
It said that trust in the political system depends on fairness, accountability, and equal treatment of all stakeholders.
According to ACT Wazalendo, the mandate of the Registrar of Political Parties is to facilitate the growth and proper functioning of political parties, rather than to restrict or intimidate them.
The party argued that political disagreements should be resolved through democratic processes and legal procedures that respect constitutional freedoms.
The party has called on the Registrar to reconsider the warning issued to CHADEMA and allow the party to continue its political activities without unnecessary restrictions.
It also urged authorities to ensure that political regulation is applied in a balanced and non-discriminatory manner.
ACT Wazalendo further encouraged citizens, civil society organizations, and democracy advocates to remain engaged in safeguarding multiparty democracy, saying that the strength of the political system depends on openness and equal participation.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the need for justice, fairness, and respect for democratic principles, noting that a stable political environment is built when all parties are treated equally under the law.
