I’ll end poverty, says CCM’s 38th presidential candidate
The former ambassador to Russia, Mr Patrick Chokala, rejoices after collecting his presidential nomination forms at the ruling party’s headquarters in Dodoma yesterday. PHOTO|EDWIN MJWAHUZI
What you need to know:
It will be the second time for Mr Chokala, a former ambassador to Russia, to seek the CCM nomination to vie for the top post.
Dodoma. Diplomat Patrick Chokala yesterday collected his nomination forms for the presidency at the CCM headquarters here. He has become the 38th party cadre to pick up the forms ahead of the October General Election.
It will be the second time for Mr Chokala, a former ambassador to Russia, to seek the CCM nomination to vie for the top post.
He tried in 2005, but the party nominated Mr Jakaya Kikwete, who finally won the presidency.
Mr Chokala served as the deputy head of mission in Nigeria in the early 1980s before being appointed by then President Ali Hassan Mwinyi as his press secretary.
He served as the press secretary to then President Ali Hassan Mwinyi and President Benjamin Mkapa.
Giving a press briefing after he collected the forms, Mr Chokala said he was well prepared to lead the country to a bright future if given an opportunity, adding that his main priority would be to ensure better life for all Tanzanians, basically through effective utilisation of resouces.
He said the country was strategically placed for carrying out trade with more than eight countries. He said if he succeeds to become president, he will use the chance effectively.
“I want to bring economic liberation. Tanzania is endowed with diverse economic potentials. What is needed is to properly use those resources to eradicate poverty amongst citizens,” he said.
He said he would ensure infrastructure is constructed so as to enable the county to exploit all economic opportunities in the East African Community.
He said: “Fast-moving electric trains will be introduced to hasten the transportation of cargo. Generally, there will be reliable and fast transport.
“I have worked in the government for a long time and I know the State House more than anybody else in the race because I worked there for over 15 years.”
He pledged to use his experience and exposure to ensure that all donor funds are used well to improve the living standards of ordinary people.
“For example, agriculture employs about 80 per cent of the Tanzanian workforce, but the sector has never given deserved attention and support. If I succeed in the race I will ensure farmers benefit from their labour,”
