Tanzania’s Msigwa’s Election Challenge Rocks Chadema with Corruption Allegations and Voter Suppression

By Adonis Byemelwa

Rev. Peter Msigwa's challenge to the Nyasa Region chairmanship election results has sparked a firestorm within Chadema, casting a critical spotlight on the party's future. Msigwa alleges that the May 29, 2024 election in Makambako, Njombe region, was tainted by voter suppression and undue influence, rendering Joseph Mbilinyi's ('Sugu') victory illegitimate.

This controversy has set social media ablaze, akin to airing dirty linen in public, and has intensified scrutiny of Chadema's internal dynamics and commitment to democratic principles. This storm, however, accentuates Chadema's resilience and its stature as a political giant that transcends individual ambitions.

Despite high-profile defections to CCM by stalwarts like David Silinde, Mwita Waitara, Patrobas Katambi, and Peter Lijualikali during Magufuli's era in 2017, Chadema continues to shine with unwavering steadfastness.

In an impassioned press conference at his home in Iringa Town, Msigwa outlined his grievances, accusing the party’s internal mechanisms of being used to sabotage his re-election bid. “I have filed an appeal with my party because three council secretaries were barred from voting.

When you look at my votes that increased to six, but three delegates were prevented from voting,” he stated. Msigwa, who lost by a narrow margin of just two votes, initially conceded defeat but later retracted, asserting, “I did not lose the election, and I cannot be defeated.”

Msigwa's allegations extend to claims of systemic bias and misconduct by specific party officials. He accused John Mrema, Chadema’s Director of Communications, Protocol, Publicity, and Foreign Affairs, of campaigning for Sugu, allegedly on behalf of Freeman Mbowe, Chadema’s National Chairman.

 “At first, I wrote that one of the election supervisors (John Mrema) should step aside to allow the process to proceed impartially. As Chadema, we criticize the CCM government for having biased election supervisors, so we should set an example by ensuring fairness in our elections,” Msigwa argued.

He further alleged that Mrema told delegates that he was instructed by Mbowe to ensure Sugu’s victory. “The use of Mbowe's name to influence the election results is a disgrace. They claimed Mbowe was making calls and giving directions on who should be elected, which tarnishes our chairman's reputation,” Msigwa lamented.

In response, Mrema dismissed the allegations and maintained that Msigwa’s appeal would be considered if it followed the proper procedures. “If he has filed an appeal and provided evidence, it will be reviewed accordingly.

 Starting to discuss appeal matters before they reach the appropriate forum is unfortunate,” Mrema said. He also questioned Msigwa’s motives, suggesting that public complaints undermine the party's internal processes.

The controversy doesn’t end there. Msigwa also accused election supervisor Benson Kigaila, Chadema’s Deputy Secretary-General for Mainland, of failing to maintain order during the election, allowing disruptive elements to interfere without consequence.

 “The situation raises serious doubts and reeks of a major violation of justice within Chadema, which should be at the forefront of democracy. I raised these issues even in meetings, but my letters went unanswered,” Msigwa noted, expressing frustration over the lack of response to his concerns.

Msigwa’s claims also include allegations of bribery, suggesting that substantial amounts of money, ranging from Sh 500,000 to Sh1 million, were used to influence delegates. “These are shameful acts for our party, which prides itself on fighting corruption. If there is such significant corruption within our party, how can we stand against CCM?” he questioned.

In a pointed rebuttal, Kigaila emphasized that Chadema handles disputes through official party mechanisms, not public forums. “I do not engage in public disputes with members. Complaints should be addressed within the party’s structures. Filing an appeal and then taking the issue to the streets is not the proper way,” Kigaila responded, stressing the importance of maintaining procedural integrity.

Political analysts have weighed in on the controversy, noting that internal conflicts within Chadema could benefit the ruling party, CCM. Chrysostom Mutabuzi, a political analyst from Shinyanga, highlighted the potential damage to Chadema’s public image. “These internal disputes portray Chadema as disorganized, which could play into CCM’s hands,” Mutabuzi remarked.

This sentiment was echoed by Amos Makalla, CCM’s Director of Ideology, Publicity, and Training, who extended an invitation to Msigwa to join CCM, touting it as a party with true democracy.

“The conflicts within Chadema reflect poorly on their ability to govern. If Msigwa seeks genuine democracy, he is welcome in CCM,” Makalla stated, seizing the opportunity to criticize Chadema’s internal discord.

Rev. Msigwa, known for his outspoken nature, has been a controversial figure within Chadema. His recent allegations add to the ongoing narrative of internal strife within the party, which has seen several high-profile defections and accusations of corruption.

Some party members and analysts fear that such issues could erode Chadema’s credibility ahead of the upcoming civic elections in October 2024 and the general elections in 2025.

Msigwa’s public grievances have sparked a broader debate on internal democracy within political parties. Dk. Azaveli Lwaitama, a member of Chadema’s Board of Trustees, emphasized that grievances should be handled internally.

“If you have concerns about the election, file an appeal within the party’s judicial system, not through the media. It’s disappointing to see members airing issues publicly,” Dk. Lwaitama commented, underscoring the importance of maintaining party discipline and unity.

Mrema, responding to Msigwa’s claims of him campaigning for Sugu, reiterated that any allegations of misconduct should be substantiated with evidence through the proper channels. “If he has evidence, he should present it in his appeal. Addressing these matters publicly is not the appropriate approach,” Mrema insisted, highlighting the party’s commitment to procedural fairness.

The internal discord has also attracted criticism from within Chadema. Martin Maranja, a party member, cautioned that Msigwa’s public disputes could harm his political career.

“Msigwa is at risk of being sidelined in opposition politics if he continues with these public spats. He should have used internal mechanisms to resolve his grievances,” Maranja suggested, pointing to the potential long-term implications for Msigwa’s standing within the party.

The controversy has prompted discussions about the broader implications for Chadema’s electoral prospects. Msigwa’s allegations of corruption and misconduct within the party could undermine its stance against the ruling CCM.

Tundu Lissu, a prominent Chadema figure, has previously alleged that even CCM officials, including the president’s son, have influenced Chadema’s internal elections. Such claims, coupled with Msigwa’s recent accusations, could tarnish the party’s image as a credible opposition force.

As Chadema navigates these turbulent times, the resolution of Msigwa’s appeal will be crucial in determining the party’s future direction and cohesion. The outcome will not only impact internal dynamics but also its standing among voters and its ability to effectively challenge CCM in the forthcoming elections.

In the meantime, political observers warn that continued public disputes could weaken Chadema’s position. “Internal conflicts and public grievances do not bode well for a party that aspires to lead. Chadema needs to resolve these issues swiftly and transparently to maintain voter confidence,” Mutabuzi concluded.

The coming months will be critical for Chadema as it seeks to restore unity and credibility ahead of the elections. The handling of Msigwa’s appeal and the party’s response to internal challenges will play a fundamental role in shaping its electoral fortunes and its ability to present a united front against CCM.