CCM convenes special national congress on May 29–30 to endorse election manifesto

Dar es Salaam. The ruling CCM will convene a Special National Congress on May 29 and 30, 2025, with the primary objective of endorsing the party’s new election manifesto ahead of the upcoming General Election.

This will be the second Special National Congress in just three months—the previous one took place on January 18–19, when President Samia Suluhu Hassan was officially nominated as CCM’s presidential candidate, with Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi named as her running mate.

In the same session, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi was endorsed to seek re-election as President of Zanzibar.

The announcement was made on Saturday, 17 May 2025, by CCM’s Ideology, Publicity, and Training Secretary, Mr Amos Makalla.

“One of the key items on the agenda is the presentation and endorsement of CCM’s election manifesto for 2025-2030. Since this is an election year, we will also present a report assessing the implementation of the 2020–2025 manifesto,” said Mr Makalla.

He added that the party will also consider minor amendments to the CCM Constitution.

The Special National Congress will follow a meeting of the Central Committee scheduled for May 26 and that of the National Executive Committee (NEC) slated for May 28—all to be held in Dodoma.

The manifesto reflects public consultation

Mr Makalla said the party had conducted broad consultations in drafting the new manifesto, incorporating input from a wide range of stakeholders.

“The manifesto captures citizens’ views and addresses outstanding challenges from the previous term. It is a reflection of our collective priorities,” he said.

He also noted that the party has already held two major events this year—the January congress and the 48th CCM anniversary—making the upcoming congress the third significant gathering in 2025.

No update yet on secretary-general vacancy

Responding to questions about whether a new Secretary-General would be appointed, given that Dr Nchimbi is now the party’s running mate in the upcoming elections, Mr Makalla was clear.

“That issue is not on the agenda. The congress will focus on three main items: the election manifesto, a performance report, and constitutional amendments.”

Absence of party Vice Chairperson (Mainland) Stephen Wassira

Mr Makalla also addressed social media speculation regarding the recent absence of CCM Vice Chairperson (Mainland), Stephen Wassira.

Questions were raised after Mr Wassira was not seen during the funeral of former Prime Minister Cleopa Msuya, who passed away on May 7 at age 94.

“Wassira has taken personal time off following official visits to districts in Dodoma Region. It’s normal for leaders to rest and spend time with family,” said Mr Makalla, adding, “I even take a break after busy assignments. It should not be a cause for concern.”

He dismissed any notion of internal issues, asserting that Mr Wassira’s absence is simply a matter of routine scheduling.