By Jones Gadama
Tanzania is embroiled in a heated debate after prominent political families, including the wife and son of former President Jakaya Kikwete, secured unopposed nominations from the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party for the upcoming October elections.
Salma Kikwete and Ridhiwani Kikwete will contest parliamentary seats in Mchinga and Chalinze, respectively, without facing any opposition within the party. Joining them is Jesca Magufuli, daughter of the late President John Magufuli, who’s running for a youth-designated special seat.
Critics are furious, accusing CCM of morphing into a “political inheritance club” that prioritizes elite families over ordinary citizens. This trend, they warn, undermines democracy and exacerbates inequality in access to leadership.
Social media is abuzz with anger and sarcasm, with many Tanzanians questioning the party’s commitment to democratic principles.
Former President Jakaya Kikwete defended his family’s unopposed nominations, arguing there’s nothing unusual about the situation. However, critics like former ambassador Humphrey Polepole have voiced strong opposition, stating that this trend weakens the party’s core principles and favors leadership families over capable individuals.
The controversy highlights concerns about CCM’s dominance and the lack of competitiveness in Tanzania’s democratic process.
With the opposition weakened and CCM’s stronghold on power, the outcome of the upcoming elections seems more a formality than a genuine test of multiparty democracy.
