ACT-Wazalendo Calls Local Elections the “Final Test” for President Samia’s 4Rs Philosophy

By Adonis Byemelwa

At a high-energy rally in Tanga on August 17, 2024, Isihaka Mchinjita, Deputy Chairperson of ACT-Wazalendo for Mainland Tanzania, delivered a blistering critique of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s 4Rs philosophy—Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms, and Rebuilding. Mchinjita declared that the forthcoming local government elections would be the ultimate showdown, revealing whether President Samia's promises will translate into meaningful change or simply a façade for continued democratic erosion.

Mchinjita's remarks came after ACT-Wazalendo’s extensive tour across 22 regions, aimed at registering ten million new party members within the next ten months. This campaign follows President Samia’s introduction of the 4Rs philosophy on the 30th anniversary of Tanzania's return to multiparty politics. The philosophy was intended to promote political reforms and foster an inclusive democracy.

"The local government elections will be the ultimate litmus test for President Samia’s government regarding her proclaimed commitment to the 4Rs," Mchinjita asserted. "The outcome will reveal whether her administration will reinforce democracy or further erode it."

ACT-Wazalendo, despite widespread calls for an Independent Electoral Commission to oversee the elections, has announced its intent to participate in the local government elections. The party criticized the current electoral oversight, accusing it of bias and failing to address public grievances effectively.

In their tour's final phase, ACT-Wazalendo highlighted several pressing issues affecting Tanzanians. These include rampant land disputes, governmental threats and bullying of citizens, escalating living costs, inadequate healthcare services, and problems with the Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF) system.

The party also condemned the Tanzania Police Force’s heavy-handed approach in detaining Chadema supporters, which led to significant incidents of violence. Notably, opposition leader Joseph Mbilinyi was hospitalized following an assault linked to these events. The US embassy in Dar es Salaam has condemned the violence, highlighting growing international concern.

ACT-Wazalendo's critique of the Tanzanian political landscape underscores a broader struggle for democratic integrity in Tanzania. The party has repeatedly denounced the double standards evident in the treatment of opposition parties compared to the ruling CCM party.

 This disparity is particularly evident in the context of violent suppression and restrictive measures that disproportionately target opposition figures.

International political science scholars, such as Dr. Muhidin Shangwe from the University of Dar es Salaam, emphasize that such actions undermine democratic processes and contribute to political instability.

According to Dr Sha Shangwe, “The violence against opposition leaders and the uneven treatment of political parties signals a troubling regression in Tanzania’s democratic practices. The international community’s condemnation and calls for fair electoral processes are crucial in addressing these issues.”

ACT-Wazalendo's ongoing struggle against what it perceives as systemic injustice and suppression highlights the broader challenges facing Tanzanian democracy. The party's efforts to mobilize support and advocate for democratic reforms continue amidst a climate of political tension and dissent.