The Struggle for Power: Tanzania’s Speaker Election Heats Up
In Dodoma, the capital of the United Republic of Tanzania, a fierce battle is unfolding within the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party over the position of Speaker of the National Assembly. The competition is intensifying between outgoing leaders, including the current Speaker, Dr Tulia Ackson, and Deputy Speaker Mussa Zungu. This contest reflects the internal dynamics of the party as it prepares for the next phase of parliamentary proceedings.
While the CCM is locked in this struggle, opposition parties are also engaging in their own processes to nominate candidates for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions. However, one notable exception is ACT Wazalendo, which has decided not to field a nominee for the role. The decision highlights the challenges faced by smaller parties in influencing the outcome of such critical elections.
The Speaker of the National Assembly is elected by Members of Parliament during the first sitting of a new parliamentary term. By the close of nominations, both Dr Ackson and Mr Zungu had submitted their forms at CCM offices in Dodoma. Other candidates who filed for the position included former Shinyanga MP Stephen Masele and Peter Frank, known as Mr Black.
A special Central Committee meeting chaired by CCM Chairperson President Samia Suluhu Hassan approved candidates for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, as well as the corresponding roles in the Zanzibar House of Representatives. According to a source within the party, three names were approved for the Speaker post: Dr Ackson, Mr Zungu, and Mr Masele.
Dr Ackson has been defending the seat she assumed after the resignation of Job Ndugai, when she was Deputy Speaker. Mr Zungu previously served as Chairman of Parliament before becoming Deputy Speaker. Their rivalry underscores the high stakes involved in this election.
The Speaker election marks the final stage of the general election process for President, MPs, and councillors held on October 29. President Samia has already convened the 13th Parliament to begin its sessions, which will start with the election of the Speaker.
Under Article 86(1) of the Constitution and the February 2023 edition of the Standing Orders of Parliament, a political party may propose one MP to contest the Speaker position. Non-MP candidates must have their names submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission five days before the election, with the Commission forwarding them to the Clerk of Parliament two days before the vote.
For the Deputy Speaker post, four CCM candidates filed nominations. Three have previously served as parliamentary chairpersons. They include Najma Giga and Daniel Sillo, while the new contender is Korogwe Rural MP-elect Timotheo Mzava.
Opposition Parties Preparing for the Challenge
Outside of CCM, opposition parties are also gearing up to contest the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions. ADC Chairman Shabani Itutu confirmed that the party has nominated officials for these roles. The National Reconstruction Alliance (NRA) is holding meetings to finalize its candidates, with Secretary-General Hassan Almas emphasizing the party’s commitment to advancing reforms in Parliament.
The Tanzania Labour Party (TLP) is completing internal processes and will submit its strongest candidate once finalized, while the Democratic Party (DP) is preparing to forward its nominees. ACT Wazalendo, however, will not field a candidate, with spokesperson Shangwe Ayo explaining that the party lacks the numbers to influence the outcome and will instead focus on serving citizens.
No Major Change Expected
Secretary-General of Chakamwata Meshack Kapange said little change is expected in the composition of MPs from the ruling party. Chakamwata is the Tanzanian Teachers’ Rights and Welfare Association, committed to protecting teachers’ rights, improving working conditions, and ensuring dignity in the education sector. Even a competent Speaker will face limitations under a Parliament dominated by one party.
Pastor Egbert Lyoka of EAGT Church in Gairo warned citizens not to expect significant shifts, noting that the candidates are largely the same as those in the 12th Parliament.