By Adonis Byemelwa
Tabora Regional Commissioner Paul Chacha (pictured) has issued a stern warning to individuals seeking parliamentary seats, accusing them of undermining current MPs by claiming they are ineffective and distributing gifts to gain support.
Chacha described these actions as not only unethical but also illegal, vowing to take decisive action against offenders.
“We are here to protect those already serving in their constituencies. There are no other MPs apart from those currently in office. If someone claims an MP isn’t performing, they must provide evidence.
Distributing gifts like money or rice to win favor is corruption. Such gifts must be handed over to the regional secretary for proper handling,” he said.
Chacha stressed that the Prevention and Control of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) will crack down on such practices, and legal measures will be taken against those involved.
“We’ve already arrested two individuals for these offenses. Declaring oneself as the right candidate for the role is an insult to the sitting MP and the government. This behavior won’t be tolerated,” he stated firmly.
He called on sitting MPs to remain focused on their duties and report any individuals attempting to undermine their efforts. “Tell us who is trying to discredit you. We’ll investigate and deal with them according to the law. Leadership comes with accountability, and we won’t shy away from holding people responsible,” Chacha added.
The regional boss also emphasized that MPs must be answerable to their constituents. He questioned their commitment, saying, “If you’ve spent only 54 days in your constituency, where were you for the other 300 days? Leadership is not personal property; it’s a public responsibility. We will assess your work and tell you the truth without sugarcoating it.”
He also highlighted the need for MPs to focus on empowering young people in their constituencies, urging them to show tangible results in uplifting youth and supporting local development initiatives. “If they promised loans or other resources, we will demand to know the progress. Voters deserve transparency and accountability,” he said.
Meanwhile, former CCM Mainland Vice Chairperson Abdulrahman Kinana echoed similar sentiments, warning party members against premature campaigns. Speaking during a presentation of the CCM manifesto implementation report in Hai, Kinana criticized those seeking leadership roles before the official campaign period, describing such actions as violations of party ethics.
“No CCM member is allowed to campaign for leadership positions while those in office are actively serving. Anyone engaging in this behavior is breaking party rules and will face disciplinary action,” Kinana stated. He urged ethics and disciplinary committees to monitor and address such violations.
Kinana reminded party members that leadership is not solely about votes but also about upholding integrity. “You may win votes, but if you’ve violated ethical standards, you could lose the nomination. Wait for the right time to seek leadership roles,” he said.
Kinana also praised Hai MP Saashisha Mafuwe for his exemplary work and applauded the government’s support in delivering over Sh 39.4 billion in development funds to Hai between 2020 and 2023 under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership.
Both Chacha and Kinana’s remarks underline the importance of ethical conduct, discipline, and accountability as the nation looks ahead to future elections. Their calls for transparency and responsible leadership send a strong message to current and aspiring leaders across the country.
Critics argue that parliamentary constituencies are not personal fiefdoms and that anyone can contribute to the well-being of citizens at any time. This debate has come to the forefront in Nkenge Constituency, where sitting MP Florent Kyombo has clashed with former MP Asumpter Mshama over her efforts to spearhead development projects in her hometown.
Mshama’s actions, which include distributing gifts and providing cement for community projects, have been interpreted by Kyombo as an attempt to stage a political comeback.
In response, an audio clip of Mshama has been widely shared on social media, in which she criticizes the notion that constituencies belong to sitting MPs. “This mindset of treating constituencies as personal dominions has held back development in Kagera,” Mshama stated. “It’s time we united as residents to bring meaningful change to our communities.”
Mshama’s remarks have ignited a broader debate, with some citizens in Misenyi District expressing concerns over political leaders stifling independent efforts to help communities.
“There are individuals who genuinely want to give back but are discouraged by the fear of offending sitting MPs or being accused of harboring political ambitions,” said a local commentator.
This raises critical questions about whether opposing a sitting MP for alleged underperformance constitutes a breach of the law or democratic norms. Legal experts emphasize that the law allows for criticism and competition in a democracy.
“There is no law prohibiting someone from opposing an MP’s performance,” said a legal analyst. “As long as actions are lawful and not defamatory, it is the right of any citizen, including political opponents, to hold leaders accountable.”
Opposition politicians have also weighed in. “If an MP is doing their job well, why fear criticism or competition?” asked a prominent opposition leader. “Development efforts should not be interpreted as threats but as complementary initiatives for the betterment of the community.”
Supporters of Kyombo argue that Mshama’s activities could confuse voters and undermine the current leadership. However, others see such contributions as a positive force for progress. “Development should be everyone’s priority. Politicians must realize that leadership is a service, not ownership,” a resident of Kagera commented.
The debate highlights the growing tension between political agendas and community needs, underscoring the call for leaders to focus on collective progress rather than personal rivalries.
Tabora Regional Commissioner’s firm warning against tactics aimed at discrediting sitting leaders and distributing gifts with ulterior motives, labeling such actions as harmful to democracy and genuine development efforts.
His message echoes the sentiments of many citizens who are urging politicians to set aside divisions and prioritize the shared goal of fostering sustainable growth and improving lives within their constituencies.