By Adonis Byemelwa
Former University of Dar es
Salaam senior lecturer and Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) cadre,
Dr. Azaveri Lwaitama has recently raised significant concerns about the
leadership choices within Chadema, emphasizing that the issue of chairmanship
is not about popularity but suitability.
In an interview with SAUTi Digital, he noted that while figures like Diamond
Platnumz may be adored by many, they lack the qualities necessary to lead a
political party. According to Dr. Lwaitama, being a good commentator or media
personality does not necessarily translate to being an effective leader.
He further warned that delegates should not allow emotional impulses to guide
their voting decisions, especially when selecting a leader who may not have the
financial means or resources to sustain the party through critical times.
He expressed concern that some potential leaders, including prominent figures like
Tundu Lissu, may struggle to bring stability if they do not possess the
practical resources to navigate the financial and logistical challenges of
leading a party.
Dr. Lwaitama also pointed out that Lissu, despite his long-standing tenure in the
party, should not be seen as exempt from criticism.
He argued that just as others are being scrutinized for holding leadership
positions for too long, Lissu, who has been in key positions for over 15 years,
should also face similar scrutiny. As he sees it, new leadership options like
Odero and Mapunda should be considered.
His comments have sparked fierce debate, with many analysts online criticizing his
stance and calling him out for outdated thinking.
Some even suggested that Dr. Lwaitama's advanced age may have clouded his judgment,
with one online commentator quipping that perhaps it was time for him to
"retire."
Others, however, have come to his defense, acknowledging his extensive experience and
long-standing service to the party.
Many have noted that while Dr. Lwaitama may not have been a perfect ally to Lissu,
his thoughts on party leadership and the challenges it faces are grounded in
deep political understanding. One user argued that Lwaitama’s observations
reflect a genuine concern for the long-term health of Chadema and its role in
Tanzanian politics. “Lwaitama’s concerns are rooted in experience,” said one
critic. “He wants what’s best for Chadema, but at times, it feels like he’s
holding the party back, clinging to outdated approaches.”
The discourse around leadership within Chadema continues to be heated, with Lissu’s
supporters arguing that the party needs fresh, bold leadership to win the 2025
elections. They contend that Mbowe, the current leader, should step aside to
make way for new blood.
“If we want to challenge CCM, we need a leader with courage, someone like Lissu,
not someone stuck in the past like Mbowe,” one Lissu supporter said. Some even
suggest that a change in leadership could help Chadema consolidate its efforts
and make a stronger push for political reform in the country.
The conflict has reached a boiling point, with accusations flying between factions.
Ezekiah Wenje, a former Chadema Member of Parliament, has also openly
criticized Lissu, accusing him of spreading falsehoods and dividing the party.
“Lissu’s actions speak louder than his words,” Wenje remarked in a recent
interview. “He’s quick to accuse without evidence, and that only weakens the
party.” Wenje recounted an incident where Lissu claimed that Mbowe had been
involved in a shady deal involving government vehicles, an allegation that was
later debunked with proper documentation.
For Wenje, Lissu’s credibility is at stake, and his tendency to make sweeping
claims without solid evidence has been damaging to the party's unity. “Lissu is
a great orator, but he needs to back up his words with facts,” Wenje added.
Lwaitama, too, has expressed similar concerns, urging the party to focus on unity rather
than baseless accusations. However, many feel that Lwaitama’s concerns are
misplaced. “He’s talking about unity, but he’s not seeing the bigger picture,”
one critic said. “Lissu’s focus on accountability is what Chadema needs.
Without it, we will continue to be irrelevant.”
Wenje and others argue that Lissu’s confrontational stance has made it difficult to
build consensus within the party. “We need cooperation, not more division,” one
former party member commented. “Lissu’s approach will tear us apart before
2025.” They emphasize the need for more cooperation, especially in the run-up
to the 2025 elections, where unity is crucial for Chadema’s success.
However, Lissu’s camp remains firm, claiming that his focus is on accountability and
ensuring that party leaders adhere to Chadema’s core principles. “Lwaitama is
out of touch,” one Lissu ally shot back. “We can’t afford to coddle weak
leadership or sugarcoat the truth. Lwaitama’s approach won’t help us beat CCM.”
Online discussions have been equally divided, with some commenting that Lissu’s bold,
often unyielding approach is precisely what the party needs. They argue that,
without a strong leader who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo, Chadema
will struggle to challenge the ruling party, CCM. “Lwaitama’s ideas won’t move
us forward,” one online user stated. “He wants to talk, but we need action.
Lissu’s strategy might be hard-hitting, but it’s what’s necessary.”
On the other hand, those critical of Lissu warn that his divisive rhetoric may do
more harm than good, potentially splintering the party and hindering its
chances in future elections. “Lissu’s approach is reckless,” another critic
commented. “He’s pushing people away. We can’t afford another round of
infighting.”
The internal discord within Chadema goes beyond leadership debates. Dr. Lwaitama, a
respected political analyst and longtime party member, has warned that ongoing
infighting could undermine the party’s chances. “We’re not going to win if we
keep fighting amongst ourselves,” he said, emphasizing the need for dialogue
and cooperation.
Lwaitama also pointed to broader political challenges, suggesting that during a time of
government restrictions, Lissu’s refusal to engage in negotiations may have
isolated the party. “Lissu’s stubbornness is his biggest flaw,” one critic
noted.
As the 2025 elections approach, the debate over leadership intensifies, with
Lwaitama and others calling for thoughtful reflection. Meanwhile, Lissu’s
supporters argue that fresh leadership is necessary to challenge the ruling
party. With tensions high, the future of Chadema—and its impact on Tanzanian
politics—remains uncertain. Time will tell if the party can unite or fragment
further in the face of its internal struggles.