Chadema youth vow to disrupt CCM congress

A Chadema Youth Council (Bavicha) meeting 

What you need to know:

The opposition youth wing made the announcement claiming that if  CCM would be allowed to hold their meeting, it would be unfair given the fact that the government has banned opposition to undertake political activities.


Dar es Salaam. Chadema Youth Council (Bavicha) has vowed to block up the ruling CCM from holding its general congress scheduled for July 23 in Dodoma. 

Bavicha vice-chairman Patrick Sosopi told reporters in Dar es Salaam yesterday that they would enforce their resolve even if it would mean using force. 

The opposition youth wing made the announcement claiming that if  CCM would be allowed to hold their meeting, it would be unfair given the fact that the government has banned opposition to undertake political activities.

Mr Sosopi told a press conference at party headquarters yesterday that they were going to stop CCM from holding their meeting because the latter would be contravening police order given to all political parties, the ruling party included, to desist from such activities as rallies, demonstration and meetings.

“If the order by both President John Magufuli and Police are aimed at restoring peace in the country, then, with due respect, CCM should also comply and shelve their meeting until further notice,” he said.

He said if CCM were to hold the meeting it would be illegal as it would be held against the order by the government.

Mr Sosopi said they were going to ask the Police to assist them in making sure that CCM does not contravene the order given by the government.

But reached for comment following Chadema youth wing’s resolve,  Police spokesperson Advera Bulimba refrained from commenting.

“First, I’m not aware that Bavicha is going to block CCM meeting. It is the first time I hear you saying it. Our duty is to ensure peace prevails in the country. So, let the politicians do whatever they please but they must respect the laws, regulations and orders,” she said.

Mr Sosopi said if CCM would be allowed to meet, they were also going to organise and conduct a number of meetings in Mbeya Region. 

“We are ready to be jailed but we will continue to fight for our rights,” he said.

CCM spokesperson Christopher ole Sendeka could not be reached by phone for comment.

CCM expects to hold its special general meeting in Dodoma on July 23, 2016 during which Former President Jakaya Kikwete would hand over party chairmanship to President John Magufuli.