What next after former Chadema bigwigs quit party

Although they did not disclose their next political destination, there are strong rumours suggesting they may join ACT-Wazalendo, Sauti ya Umma (SAU), or Chama cha Ukombozi wa Umma (Chaumma). Sources say preliminary talks with ACT-Wazalendo and SAU fell through due to unmet conditions, making Chaumma a more likely option.

Chaumma, led by Mr Hashim Rungwe—popularly known as “Mzee wa Ubwabwa”—is scheduled to hold Central Committee meetings on May 10–11 and a general congress on June 27–28 in Dar es Salaam to nominate its presidential candidates for the October 2025 General Election. The party is one of 18 registered parties eligible to field candidates.

Also read: G55 wants change as Chadema faces 2025 elections dilemma

While some analysts argue that the leaders’ influence within Chadema may not have been decisive—especially with the party’s expected absence from the upcoming election—others warn the departure could destabilise the party, given their past roles as strategic drivers of Mr Mbowe’s administration.

Political analysts have drawn parallels with historical defections in Tanzania’s multi-party politics. In 1995, Augustino Mrema’s defection from CCM to NCCR-Mageuzi strengthened the latter, while his later move to TLP weakened NCCR.

In 2019, Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad’s departure from CUF to ACT-Wazalendo significantly eroded CUF’s influence, leading to ACT’s current power-sharing government in Zanzibar. Edward Lowassa’s move from CCM to Chadema in 2015 also brought unprecedented momentum to the opposition.

Observers say the impact of the Chadema defectors will largely depend on which party they join and how effectively they are utilised politically.

Opposition parties respond

Leaders from the three parties linked to the defectors confirmed they have not officially received applications but remain open to collaboration.

Mr Rungwe said while he had heard rumours, no official approach had been made. “If they apply, they will be subjected to party procedures and assessed by the membership,” he told The Citizen.

ACT-Wazalendo leader Dorothy Semu also denied any formal talks but affirmed the party’s openness to seasoned politicians. “We welcome leaders committed to real change. Our track record, such as receiving former CUF members, speaks for itself,” she said.

Also read: Is Chadema headed the CUF, NCCR-Mageuzi way?

SAU Secretary General Majaliwa Kyara echoed similar sentiments, saying any new member would be welcomed if they adhere to party rules and obtain a valid membership card.

Inside the split

The five leaders, including Julius Mwita, John Mrema and Catherine Ruge, held a press briefing wearing all-white outfits and cited unmet expectations and what they described as exclusionary leadership under the current chairman, Tundu Lissu.

Mr Kigaila criticised the party’s failure to implement Mr Mbowe’s post-election call for reconciliation and alleged discrimination against Mr Mbowe loyalists. He also pointed out the lack of party meetings, citing that no Central Committee meetings had occurred since Mr Lissu’s arrest, and that key decisions—including election boycotts—had not been ratified by any formal sitting.

“We are still energetic and want to serve Tanzanians. CCM is not an option, but we’ll announce our new platform soon,” he said.

Mr Mwalimu, who served the party for 17 years, said he had repeatedly opposed the “No reforms, no elections” mantra but was ignored. “There’s nothing happening in Chadema anymore. I’ve had enough,” he declared.

Ms Ruge, former head of the party’s women’s wing (Bawacha), accused Chadema of abandoning its goal of taking power and instead instilling fear in Tanzanians. “I cannot remain in a party whose agenda I no longer believe in,” she said.

Chadema responds

Chadema Deputy Secretary General (Mainland) Amani Golugwa dismissed the departures, describing them as a result of “misguided choices” rather than ideological shifts.

“There’s no vacuum left. Yes, we would have liked them to stay, but the journey continues,” he said.

Also read: Chadema divided as 55 cadres oppose 'No Reforms, No Election' position

Mr Golugwa denied claims of dictatorship within the party and insisted that meetings had been held, including one with presidential hopefuls in Bagamoyo in April.

He reiterated that Chadema remains committed to reforms but expects discipline and unity. “We’ve tried reaching out to them, but they wouldn’t engage. Now they’re attacking the party,” he said.

He warned that those leaving the party might face a rough political road ahead, adding, “Their journey won’t be safe. Eventually, they’ll clash with the public.”