Prime
Tanzania’s CCM dismisses claims of internal wrangles, says party is strong, united
Mr Khamisi Mbeto Khamis
What you need to know:
- In a strongly worded statement, the Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training of the CCM Zanzibar Special Committee of the National Executive Committee (NEC), Mr Khamis Mbeto Khamis, rejected growing online speculation about factionalism, insisting that the party remains solid and cohesive
Dar es Salaam. Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has dismissed claims of internal divisions, maintaining that the party remains united and resilient as it implements wide-ranging constitutional reforms in the run-up to the 2025 General Election.
In a strongly worded statement, the Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training of the CCM Zanzibar Special Committee of the National Executive Committee (NEC), Mr Khamis Mbeto Khamis, rejected growing online speculation about factionalism, insisting that the party remains solid and cohesive.
“Those hoping to see the party collapse will wait for many years, if not forever,” he said.
“CCM is built on solid foundations, has withstood the test of time, and is led by seasoned leadership.”
He criticised what he described as “opportunists, mercenaries and hypocrites” for peddling misleading narratives on social media, saying such efforts were futile.
“They are wasting their time. Their efforts will not change a thing,” he said.
Mr Mbeto made the remarks following the party’s virtual National General Conference held on July 26, 2025, during which major amendments to the CCM constitution were endorsed.
One of the key changes involves the expansion of the number of leadership aspirants that the Central Committee can forward to the NEC.
Previously capped at three, the new guidelines now allow the submission of more than ten names, depending on the number of candidates and the intensity of competition.
“Our internal democratic space has expanded,” he said.
“In some positions, as many as 50 members are contesting. Limiting the shortlist to three was no longer practical.”
He described the reforms as a testament to the party’s ability to evolve with time and commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan—who also serves as the party’s national chairperson—for her leadership in steering the changes.
“The conference was smooth, inclusive and forward-looking,” he said, noting that the reforms reflect CCM’s continued relevance and popular support.
Responding to online allegations of infighting, Mr Mbeto reiterated that CCM is guided by institutional principles rather than digital discourse or emotional sentiments.
“CCM is not governed through social media or emotional outbursts. It is steered by experienced politicians who uphold the party’s long-standing ideals,” he said.
With the 2025 polls drawing closer, CCM’s emphasis on unity and internal democracy signals a strategic effort to consolidate its position while countering both internal and external scrutiny.
