Tanzania:CCM Grills MP Luhaga Mpina Amidst Controversy over Handling of Scandalous Cases

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a surprising turn of events, the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has summoned Kisesa Member of Parliament, Luhaga Mpina, to answer to various allegations, including his alleged failure to hold constituency meetings and address citizens' concerns.

The meeting, conducted by the party's Ethics and Security Committee in Meatu District, Simiyu Region, lasted for two hours on Thursday, January 25, 2024.

During the session, Mpina, a former Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, faced questions about his apparent absence in his constituency, lack of public engagement, and failure to resolve community issues. The CCM district committee, led by Chairman Abdillah Hajji, expressed concerns about Mpina's performance as an elected representative.

When approached for comments after the meeting, Mpina remained tight-lipped about the proceedings, emphasizing that the details should be obtained from those who called the meeting. The party officials indicated that the issues discussed would remain internal, highlighting that it was a routine session to address concerns within the party.

This move has raised eyebrows, especially in light of the contrasting treatment of another CCM member, Pauline Gekul, who is facing criminal allegations.

Gekul, the former Deputy Minister of Constitution and Legal Affairs had been accused of orchestrating an incident where a former employee alleged mistreatment, including being forced to strip and having a soda bottle inserted into his rectum.

In a shocking development, the High Court of Manyara in Babati district recently scheduled the hearing of Gekul's appeal on March 18, 2024.

The appeal challenges the decision of the Babati District Court to dismiss the case based on the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) statement of no intention to proceed with the prosecution.

The discrepancy in the treatment of these cases has sparked controversy, as Gekul's case involves serious criminal allegations, including assault and causing bodily harm.

The public is questioning the party's priorities, especially given the severity of the accusations against Gekul and the subsequent quashing of her case by the High Court.

Critics argue that the focus on grilling Mpina, who has been vocal in criticizing the government on corruption issues, raises concerns about selective accountability within the ruling party.

The juxtaposition of these two cases has ignited a public discourse about the party's commitment to addressing internal ethics and its stance on holding members accountable for alleged wrongdoing.

As the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) grapples with internal matters, the political landscape in Tanzania is transforming with potential repercussions for upcoming local and general elections. The party's handling of internal issues, particularly the recent grilling of Kisesa Member of Parliament, Luhaga Mpina, is garnering attention and influencing public perception.

Mpina, known for his outspoken stance against corruption within the government, recently revealed alarming findings from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) report. According to Mpina, as of April 2023, illicit financial transactions totaling a staggering TZS 280 trillion had been identified. The revelation raises concerns about money laundering activities within the country and the apparent lack of government efforts to combat the issue, jeopardizing economic security.

In a contrasting development, the party's response to corruption allegations against its ministers has been less stringent. Numerous ministers accused of corruption seem to evade accountability, sparking public frustration. Critics argue that the party's selective approach to addressing internal issues undermines its credibility and raises questions about its commitment to combating corruption at all levels.

One such case involves former Deputy Minister of Constitution and Legal Affairs, Pauline Gekul, who faced serious criminal allegations. Despite accusations of mistreatment, including pushing a bottle into an individual's anus, the High Court of Manyara quashed the case, leaving many perplexed about the judiciary's handling of such a sensitive matter.

Adding to the controversy is the recent summoning of Mpina by the CCM's Ethics and Security Committee, raising questions about the party's priorities. Critics argue that while Mpina faces scrutiny for his outspoken stance, party stalwarts accused of corruption are not held accountable, creating an imbalance in the party's disciplinary actions.

Amid these internal struggles, Mpina's revelations about illicit financial transactions and his continued advocacy against corruption have positioned him as a key figure within the party. Some critics suggest that Mpina should be cautious about his security, as party stalwarts may attempt to harm him before the 2025 General elections.

As the political dynamics evolve, the CCM's approach to internal issues and the resolution of corruption allegations will undoubtedly shape public perception and influence the trajectory of Tanzanian politics leading up to the upcoming elections.