The Evolution of the Deputy Speakership in Tanzanian Parliament
The competition for the position of Speaker between Dr. Tulia Ackson, the current Speaker, and her deputy, Mussa Azzan Zungu, highlights a significant trend in Tanzanian parliamentary politics. The role of Deputy Speaker has increasingly become a preparatory stage for the top leadership position, reflecting a pattern observed in previous leadership transitions.
This pattern is evident from past parliamentary successions, where several former Deputy Speakers later contested for the Speakership. This suggests that the Deputy Speakership serves as a platform for grooming future leaders, offering them the necessary experience and exposure to prepare for higher responsibilities.
The ongoing contest has been described as a political tussle following Mr. Zungu’s decision to collect nomination forms within Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) to challenge his boss, Dr. Ackson, for the Speakership. This move underscores the evolving dynamics within the party and the significance of the Deputy Speakership as a stepping stone to the Speakership.
Historical Context and Leadership Transitions
The path to the Speaker’s chair has historically taken different forms. For instance, Speaker Adam Sapi Mkwawa was succeeded by his deputy, Pius Msekwa, who later inherited the position. Msekwa’s experience in public administration, constitutional matters, and parliamentary procedure made him a natural successor during a time when Parliament required a steady hand to manage rising political tensions.
Samuel Sitta led the Ninth Parliament under his “speed and standards” philosophy, emphasizing government accountability. His deputy, Anne Makinda, later succeeded him after CCM’s internal processes did not nominate Sitta for another term. During Makinda’s tenure, Job Ndugai served as her deputy, managing a large and vocal opposition bench. His five-year experience as Deputy Speaker helped him navigate a Parliament marked by high tension and robust debate.
Following the 2015 General Election, Speaker Ndugai’s health challenges often kept him abroad for treatment, leaving Dr. Tulia Ackson, then Deputy Speaker, to preside over sessions for extended periods. After Ndugai’s resignation, CCM swiftly endorsed Dr. Ackson—widely seen as a capable and well-prepared successor due to her parliamentary experience and strong legal credentials.
Current Shortlisted Candidates
Recently, the CCM Special National Executive Council (NEC), chaired by President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Dodoma, shortlisted candidates for the posts of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 13th Parliament. For the Speakership, the shortlisted candidates are Dr. Tulia Ackson, Mussa Azzan Zungu, and Stephen Masele. For the Deputy Speakership, the names include Najma Giga, Daniel Sillo, and Timotheo Mzava.
The shortlisted candidates will first face a vote by the CCM Parliamentary Caucus before proceeding to a full House vote. This process reflects the party’s commitment to internal democracy, allowing MPs to elect the leader they trust most.
Analyst Perspectives on the Contest
Political analyst Dr. Onesmo Kyauke noted that CCM’s decision to field both the Speaker and her deputy for the same race signals the party’s commitment to internal democracy. He believes Mr. Zungu stands a fair chance due to his charisma, experience, and age, which may appeal to younger MPs seeking a mature and steady leader. However, he added that age might also prove divisive, as some MPs may prefer a younger leader with fresh perspectives.
Political analyst Hamduny Marcel argued that while Mr. Zungu is “politically formidable,” Dr. Ackson has a strong advantage given her legal background and international reputation. He highlighted her legal expertise and her role as President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), where she represents the country effectively. He also noted that gender dynamics might influence voting patterns, although MPs’ voting behavior can be unpredictable.
Another analyst, Enzi Talib, emphasized the need for a leader with both deep legal knowledge and international exposure—qualities that Dr. Ackson has consistently demonstrated. He argued that at this stage, the Speaker must have both local and international experience, unlike Mr. Zungu, whose expertise remains largely domestic.
Reforms to Strengthen the Deputy Speakership
Although current Standing Orders provide that the Deputy Speaker assumes the Speaker’s role in their absence, analysts say the office still needs to be strengthened with independent functions. At present, the Deputy Speaker’s duties are limited to acting in the Speaker’s stead, creating an impression that the role lacks autonomy.
Experts suggest amending Standing Orders—or even the Constitution—to grant the office a distinct mandate, such as chairing key committees like Ethics or Parliamentary Resources. They also propose giving the Deputy Speaker administrative oversight of departments such as Research, MPs’ Training, or Parliamentary Communications.
Such reforms, they argue, would make the office more substantive, allowing the Speaker and Deputy Speaker to function complementarily rather than one merely standing in for the other.