Why opposition parties eye CCM rejects as nominations near en

Opposition parties are eyeing these individuals as politically valuable recruits, often well-known, experienced, and influential at the grassroots level.

Chaumma was among the first to extend an open invitation. Speaking in Simiyu Region during a meeting with parliamentary and councillorship aspirants, the party’s director of Finance, Planning and Economy, Ms Catherine Ruge, urged CCM aspirants who face rejection to join Chaumma’s cause.

“The problem facing Tanzanians is not political parties. It is the ruling party, which has contributed to the hardships experienced by the people,” Ms Ruge said.

She called on CCM members who may be eliminated from the nomination race to join Chaumma, assuring them of support if they share the vision of change.

“I urge those who will be dropped to come to Chaumma. The doors are open. If you have energy and public backing, we’ll work together and give you the opportunity to run. Our goal is to remove CCM from power,” she said.

In her remarks, Ms Ruge invoked a common political metaphor: “Even if the cat is black, blue or red if it can catch mice, we’ll use it.”

More than 20,000 CCM members applied to contest for various positions, including over 4,000 for parliamentary seats. As the party narrows the field, opposition parties are quietly moving to capitalise on the discontent.

The Civic United Front (CUF) has also expressed readiness to receive new members, albeit cautiously. CUF’s director of Protocol, Communications, and Foreign Affairs, Mr Mohamed Ngulangwa, said political parties thrive on recruiting people with public trust and influence.

“When someone with influence defects, even from CCM, you welcome them. They can strengthen your party. That’s normal in politics,” he said.

However, he warned that joining CUF is no guarantee of becoming a candidate.

“Every member must pass through our internal nomination process. We welcome new people, but we also have our procedures,” said Mr Ngulangwa.

CUF’s own vetting process is ongoing and set to conclude by July 17.

Similarly, NCCR–Mageuzi’s Vice Chairperson for Mainland Tanzania, Mr Joseph Selasini, encouraged opposition parties to be pragmatic in embracing defectors, especially those with proven grassroots appeal.

“When someone leaves CCM, they rarely come alone. They come with supporters, campaign experience, and local credibility. If they’re serious about change, they’re welcome,” he said.

Still, Mr Selasini insisted that defection does not mean entitlement.

“We must strike a balance. All aspirants, whether long-time members or newcomers, must follow internal procedures. But we cannot ignore the political capital they bring,” he said.

He also highlighted the practical benefits of receiving financially independent defectors.

“Most of them can fund their own campaigns. For a party with limited resources, that’s a major advantage,” Mr Selasini added.

Political experts say defections from CCM also carry emotional and symbolic weight.

A political scientist at the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Richard Mbunda, said the impact is strongest when voters feel their preferred candidate was treated unfairly.

“When a popular aspirant is dropped and joins the opposition, they usually carry a loyal support base with them. That offers a strong starting point,” said Dr Mbunda.

He noted that opposition parties are well aware of this.

“They gain more than just a candidate. They inherit trust, campaign networks, and mobilisation systems.”

Dr Paul Loisulie from the University of Dodoma agreed, saying many of those dropped by CCM are politically seasoned and financially stable.

“Few people leave CCM without a clear plan. Most have resources and experience. They’re strategic additions to any opposition movement,” he said.

He added that voter sympathy often follows the individual, not the party.

“When voters feel a leader they trust was unfairly treated, they shift allegiance. This can significantly alter voting patterns, especially in close races,” he said.

Prof Makame Ali Ussi of the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA) said defections should not be dismissed as isolated events.

“These are political moments. Some defectors end up defeating the same individuals who beat them in CCM nominations. That shows their strength transcends party lines,” he said.

He noted that such individuals often provide financial support to opposition parties rather than relying on them.

“They are self-reliant and in many cases, they assist the party financially. That’s a huge asset.”

Another political analyst from the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Onesmo Kyauke, said the impact is more profound when the defectors are veteran CCM members.

“When a senior figure defects citing injustice that becomes a powerful campaign narrative for the opposition. It builds a strong case for political change,” said Dr Kyauke.

He argued that the real battle begins during nomination periods.

“Campaigns don’t start at rallies, they begin with how nominations are managed. For the opposition, this is a key opportunity to build momentum from CCM’s internal cracks,” he said.