Tanzania: Babu Duni vs. Othman Masoud In High Stakes Battle For The Soul Of ACT-Wazalendo

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a political theater of competing visions and ambitions, the ACT-Wazalendo Party is on the brink of a transformative moment as Chairman Juma Duni Haji, popularly known as Babu Duni, and his deputy in Zanzibar, Othman Masoud Othman, brace for a high-stakes leadership contest.

With just two days remaining before the crucial general assembly that will shape the party's leadership, both heavyweight contenders are engaging in spirited debates, offering contrasting visions for the future trajectory of ACT-Wazalendo.

The political landscape within ACT-Wazalendo is charged with anticipation as the Central Committee convened yesterday to address a myriad of issues, including the scrutiny of candidates vying for top leadership positions.

The palpable tension in the air suggests that the upcoming Main Council meeting, scheduled for today, will play a critical role in determining the nominations for candidates who will vie for leadership roles during the general assembly commencing on March 5, 2024.

Outgoing ACT-Wazalendo Chairman, Babu Duni, is not mincing words in his determination to defend his position. His focus is particularly on advancing the concept of a Government of National Unity (GNU), especially in Zanzibar.

 At 73, Babu Duni brushes aside concerns about his age, passionately stating, "Why should I rest when I am still strong?" He leans on his extensive experience in the multi-party system, a journey spanning over 30 years.

Speaking to reporters in Dar es Salaam recently Babu Duni elucidated his achievements since assuming the chairmanship in 2020. He emphasized the expansion of the party's reach, particularly on the mainland, where it had struggled to establish roots.

The seasoned politician recounted his tireless efforts, having visited more than 20 regions, actively participating in repeat elections, and witnessing the party's growth firsthand.

However, Babu Duni is not without his challenges. With the declaration of his intention to seek re-election, he finds himself fending off false accusations and insinuations. In the face of these allegations, he staunchly denied claims of being influenced by external forces or receiving significant financial support. Babu Duni's frustration with these accusations is palpable, with a defiant tone as he questions the credibility of those tarnishing his reputation.

Intriguingly, Babu Duni sheds light on internal dissent, claiming that party members, including regional leaders, are flouting procedural norms by supporting his opponent, Othman Masoud Othman. His concern about a "hidden hand" manipulating the nomination process adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

On the other side of the ring stands Othman Masoud Othman, the Deputy Chairman of ACT-Wazalendo, who is gearing up to challenge the incumbent chairman. Othman is a lawyer and politician from Zanzibar, bringing a unique perspective to the leadership battle.

Speaking to PanAfricanvision yesterday, Othman expressed his intent to implement the party's strategic plan, emphasizing his ability to deliver on the brand promise to Tanzanians if elected.

Othman provides insight into the dynamics of the competition, framing it as a positive indicator of the party's growth since its inception in 2014. His remarks suggest that the intense competition not only extends to the chairmanship position but permeates various leadership levels, reflecting a broader commitment to the party's evolution.

Addressing Babu Duni's complaints about alleged smear campaigns, Othman maintains that he has not witnessed any evidence of tarnishing his opponent's image. He attributes the internal discord to factions within the party and pledges to address the issue head-on.

 Othman points out the retirement of senior leaders within the party, framing it as a positive sign of institutional development and the party's ability to transition leadership effectively.

As both Babu Duni and Othman gear up for the impending debate in Dar es Salaam, the spotlight intensifies on their visions for the party's future. The competition between these two heavyweight contenders promises to be a defining moment in ACT-Wazalendo's history, with the potential to reshape the party's identity and direction.

The internal dynamics within ACT-Wazalendo seem to be as intricate as the national political landscape. Babu Duni's accusations of procedural irregularities and a "hidden hand" influencing nominations underscore the challenges of maintaining party cohesion amidst leadership transitions.

 The responses from the election supervisor, Joran Bashange, offer a glimpse into the party's mechanisms for addressing grievances, highlighting the importance of adhering to established procedures.

Othman Masoud Othman's commitment to addressing internal factions within the party reflects a recognition of the potential destabilizing impact of dissent. His emphasis on unity and the need for leaders to inform him of issues suggests a collaborative approach to resolving conflicts within the party.

 The impending retirements of senior leaders within ACT-Wazalendo, as mentioned by Othman, signal a strategic move toward institutional development and careful consideration of leadership transitions.

Beyond the internal dynamics, both candidates have expressed their commitment to the Government of National Unity (GNU), particularly in Zanzibar. Othman Masoud Othman, with his experience as the First Vice President of Zanzibar, sheds light on the challenges faced by the GNU.

 His focus on reviewing agreements between ACT-Wazalendo and the Zanzibar President underscores the complexities of navigating power-sharing arrangements and the inherent challenges in implementing agreed-upon policies.

Othman identifies electoral issues as the primary stumbling block within the GNU, emphasizing the importance of resolving these issues to ensure the commitment of all parties involved.

The lack of progress in implementing proposals, coupled with perceived electoral shortcomings, poses a significant challenge to the effectiveness of the GNU. Othman's nuanced perspective highlights the intricacies of governing through consensus and the need for tangible outcomes to ensure the success of such collaborative efforts.

As the countdown to the pivotal general assembly on March 5, 2024, intensifies, ACT-Wazalendo stands at a crucial juncture, facing a leadership clash between Babu Duni and Othman Masoud Othman. Beyond a mere contest for positions, this battle embodies a clash of visions that will indelibly shape the party's trajectory. The complex interplay of accusations, denials, and promises by the contenders underscores the high stakes in this political drama, with the party's response to internal dissent and the effectiveness of the Government of National Unity (GNU) under scrutiny.

This showdown is not only captivating the attention of ACT-Wazalendo members but also resonates nationally. As Tanzanian political enthusiasts eagerly await the upcoming debate in Dar es Salaam, it is clear that the general assembly represents a crossroads where the party's destiny, and to some extent, the future course of Tanzanian politics, will be determined.

Reflecting on ACT-Wazalendo's journey, from its founding in 2014 to becoming Tanzania's third-largest political party, the party's significance is underscored by its leading role in the Zanzibar House of Representatives. Notable figures like Zitto Kabwe, Seif Sharif Hamad, Othman Masoud Sharif, and others have shaped its identity. Seif Sharif Hamad's move to ACT in 2019 marked a turning point, further solidifying the party's influence.

As Zitto Kabwe officially joined ACT-Wazalendo in 2015 after leaving Chadema, the party's evolution is intricately woven with key players and strategic decisions. Now, as the leadership battle unfolds, the narrative comes full circle, emphasizing that ACT-Wazalendo's destiny is not just a matter of internal politics but a force that resonates across the Tanzanian political landscape. The general assembly on March 5, 2024, stands not only as a culmination of the party's journey but as a harbinger of its future impact on the nation's political course.