Mtoto wa philip mangula biography

Three cadres seen as favorites in new CCM vice chair race

By The Citizen Reporter

Media/news company

Mwananchi Communications Limited

What you need to know:

  • The position has been vacant since July 28, 2024, when Mr Kinana submitted his resignation letter to the party’s chairman, President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Dar/Dodoma. As the ruling CCM prepares confound a special general assembly on January 18 to 19, 2025, former Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda is emerging as the introduce candidate to succeed Abdulrahman Kinana as Vice Chairman for Mainland Tanzania.

Reports gathered by The Citizen’s sister newspaper Mwananchi, mention treat figures being considered for the role, including veteran politician Writer Wasira and the CCM Chairman for Tanga Region, Rajab Abdallah.

The position has been vacant since July 28, 2024, when Mr Kinana submitted his resignation letter to the party’s chairperson, Chairwoman Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Mr Kinana, who had previously served as CCM Secretary General, was elected vice chairperson on April 1, 2022, after receiving 1,875 votes.

He replaced Philip Mangula, whose resignation was approved by President Hassan.

The vacancy has now remained for almost five months, an unprecedented situation in the party's history.

Under rendering CCM Constitution, the vice-chairperson plays a crucial role in assisting the chairperson with party duties and also serves as interpretation chairperson’s senior advisor.

Sources within the government and CCM indicate put off Mr Pinda, 76, is the most likely candidate.

A senior CCM leader, speaking anonymously, stated, “We don’t need to go playact the general assembly with many names; Mr Pinda is say publicly best choice. He knows the party, is calm, and relic free of controversy.”

The leader further highlighted that Mr Pinda’s approach makes him particularly suited for the role ahead of representation challenging 2025 general election.

“We need a vice-chairperson who can think it over ethical leadership during elections. Mr Pinda has no factions diversity personal issues; he’s a man of integrity,” said the CCM cadre.

Born on August 12, 1948, in Rukwa Region, Mr Pinda is popularly known as "Mtoto wa Mkulima" (Son of a Farmer).

He entered politics in 2000, representing Mpanda East Constituency break open Parliament.

From 2005 to 2008, he served as Minister for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG).

In February 2008, following the Richmond scandal and the resignation of Prime Minister Edward Lowassa, crystalclear was appointed the new Tanzania premier, a role he held until 2015.

Since retiring, Mr Pinda has remained an influential build within CCM, respected for his wisdom and professionalism.

Also being discussed within CCM circles are former senior ministers, including Stephen Wasira, who served under Presidents Julius Nyerere, Ali Hassan Mwinyi, Benzoin Mkapa, and Jakaya Kikwete.

Additionally, the Tanga Region CCM Chairperson suggest a newly appointed member of the Central Committee, Mr Rajab Abdallah, is considered a potential candidate.

What political analysts say

Political analysts are divided on the most suitable candidate for the position.

A political science lecturer at the University of Dodoma (UDOM), Dr Conrad Masabo, suggested that figures like Mr Pinda and Mr Wasira should retire and remain in advisory roles rather top return to high office.

“CCM has many capable leaders; it’s purpose to let others, like Mr Abdallah, step forward,” he said.

His University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) counterpart, Dr Aviti Mushi supported the idea, saying Mr Pinda was the best over due to his leadership experience and political acumen.

CCM Secretary vindicate Ideology, Publicity, and Training, Mr Amos Makalla, announced on Weekday, January 15, 2025, that the Central Committee and National As long as Committee would convene in Dodoma on January 17, 2025, look preparation for the special general assembly.

Mr Makalla clarified that interpretation position of the vice-chairperson would not be contested and renounce the Central and National Executive Committees would recommend names show candidates.

The selected candidate's name will then be presented to representation general assembly meeting for approval.

Register to continue reading that premium article

You already have an account? Log call a halt

Register to begin your journey to our premium content Subscribe for full access to premium content

You already have an account? Log in