By Adonis Byemelwa
In the wake of consecutive deaths of prominent Tanzanian politicians, the nation finds itself entangled in a political labyrinth marked by intrigue, hypocrisy, and the unrelenting struggle for change. The recent funeral of former Prime Minister Edward Ngoyayi Lowassa became a focal point, unraveling the complex web of political maneuvering and exposing the contradictions within the ruling party, CCM, and the opposition, CHADEMA.
Lowassa’s funeral stood out amidst others, including former Ambassador to Brazil and East African Community Minister Dr. Deodorus Kamala and former Minister of Energy and Minerals Dr. Ibrahim Msabaha, which failed to ignite the same level of political fervor. This discrepancy raised eyebrows on social media, leading to questions about the preferential treatment given to Lowassa, who had switched allegiance from CCM to CHADEMA.
Notably, Lowassa’s influence transcended his party switch, gaining prominence for reportedly attracting religious leaders and investing significantly in garnering support during the 2015 elections. Despite his defeat to President Magufuli, Lowassa’s departure from CCM left a lasting impact, unveiling underlying power struggles and intrigues within the ruling party.
The blurred lines between academia and politics in Tanzania were further exposed during President Magufuli’s administration, as Prof. Peter Kopoka from the University of Dodoma faced repercussions for allegedly supporting Lowassa during the 2015 campaign. This clash underscored the intertwining of academic freedom and political affiliations in the Tanzanian context.
Lowassa, known for using his resources strategically, resigned as Prime Minister following the Richmond power scandal, revealing internal power struggles within CCM. President Kikwete faced scrutiny during Lowassa’s funeral, accused of hypocrisy related to the Richmond scandal, shedding light on intricate relationships within the ruling party and promises made to political figures like Samuel Sitta and Lowassa.
President Samia’s indirect response to opposition leader Freeman Mbowe’s call to acknowledge Lowassa’s past opposition ties during the funeral added another layer of complexity. Her comment about finding no suitable place for such details in Lowassa’s biography was interpreted as a rebuke to Mbowe, exposing the political tightrope walked by leaders.
The funeral underscored political contradictions as individuals like Humphrey Polepole and Paul Makonda, who previously criticized Lowassa, offered their condolences. Nape Nnauye, a vocal Lowassa critic, maintained a low profile, prompting questions about the authenticity of condolences, particularly given that some of Lowassa’s rivals had already passed away.
The associations between President Kikwete and President Samia, coupled with the utilization of state resources, faced scrutiny. Their joint appearances raised suspicions and fueled speculation about connections and the potential use of public funds. Post-Lowassa funeral, Tanzanian politics became a subject of heightened discourse, with citizens questioning the apparent camaraderie between former President Kikwete and President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Following Lowassa’s burial, the two leaders embarked on a joint trip to Ethiopia for the unveiling of a statue of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere. Subsequently, they attended the funeral of Namibia’s former President Hage Geingob.
Concerns among citizens have arisen, suggesting that Kikwete and the current president may be collaborating at the government’s expense, potentially violating retirement principles and traditions.
Social media discussions even speculate about a closer relationship between the two leaders, going as far as suggesting the existence of a child between them, who is now married to Tanzania’s Minister of State in the President’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government) – Mohamed Mchengerwa.
Meanwhile, the sudden death of former President Ali Hassan Mwinyi prompted reflections on the divergent reactions to the deaths of these two leaders.
Despite being encouraged to bid farewell to Mwinyi at Uhuru Temeke grounds in Dar es Salaam, the smaller-than-expected crowd suggested a diminishing popularity, further compounded by allegations of his children’s continued political involvement, accumulating wealth and power.
Newspapers and social media celebrated Mwinyi for steering the country through economic challenges, but critics argued that his leadership negatively impacted the country’s currency value, a point not prominently addressed in eulogies. The late Prof. Mwesiga Baregu’s assertion that Mwalimu Nyerere would be distressed by selling every resource, particularly minerals, added a critical perspective.
Political analysts contended that Mwinyi’s leadership faced challenges, including a devalued currency. Nyaronyo Kichere criticized Mwinyi for allegedly selling Loliondo land to Arabs and contributing to the devaluation of the Tanzanian shilling. Religious tensions during Mwinyi’s presidency, marked by debates on Muslims condemning Christians, led to interventions by former President Julius Nyerere.
Mwinyi’s era saw changes in school uniforms, with hijabs allowed as formal attire for Muslim girls, but critics argue these aspects were not highlighted during the funeral, revealing political hypocrisy in Tanzania. Following the funeral, attention shifted to the political arena, with Othman Masoud Othman taking over the leadership of the opposition party ACT-Wazalendo from Juma Duni Haji.
The age factor was cited for Juma Duni’s removal, raising suspicions among opposition supporters. The camaraderie between CCM and opposition leaders raised questions about the authenticity of their relationships, with speculation about appeasing the opposition to allow President Samia to proceed without hindrance.
President Samia’s statement during a meeting with Chadema leader Freeman Mbowe, cautioning the opposition against causing chaos during elections, sparked concerns about potential manipulation. Mbowe’s call for nationwide peaceful demonstrations revived confidence in the opposition, though many doubted if protests alone could bring about the desired change.
Some political observers emphasized the significance of the current opposition in Tanzania, fueled by rising living costs and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of constitutional issues and inflation. Allegations of vote theft persisted, casting doubt on the government’s response.
Zitto Kabwe, despite resigning from ACT-Wazalendo, expressed doubts about CCM’s sincerity in ensuring free and fair elections. In conclusion, Tanzania’s political dynamics continue evolving under President Samia, who faces the challenge of proving her commitment to democratic principles. The prolonged stay of senior leaders in Chadema raises concerns about democracy within the party, with Mbowe emphasizing member trust as its driving force. Despite challenges, Chadema’s resilience under Mbowe’s leadership stands as a testament to the party’s ability to withstand sabotage.
