The declaration by Cosmas Makongo, a former writer for late President John Magufuli when he was the minister, to challenge incumbent MP Medard Kalemani in Chato constituency reflects a significant political shift within Tanzania’s ruling CCM party. Here’s a breakdown of the context and implications:
⚖️ 1. Incumbent MP Medard Kalemani’s Background.
– Kalemani has represented Chato since 2015, succeeding Magufuli, who held the seat for 20 years (1995–2015) before becoming president.
– He served as Energy Minister under Magufuli (2017–2021) but was dismissed by current President Samia Suluhu Hassan during her cabinet reshuffles, signalling his diminished influence in her administration.
– Despite his PhD and legal background, Kalemani is criticised for lacking visibility and fresh initiatives in Chato after nearly a decade in office.
✨ 2. Cosmas Makongo’s Challenge.
Makongo, leveraging his association with Magufuli’s legacy, positions himself as a proponent of “new blood” and grassroots-driven implementation of the CCM manifesto. His platform emphasises:
– Term Limits:
Arguing that 10 years is sufficient for an MP to contribute, echoing broader debates about political renewal.
– People-Centric Policies:
Focusing on local participation in development projects, contrasting with Kalemani’s technocratic approach.
– Alignment with Samia’s Reforms:
While distancing himself from Magufuli’s faction, he taps into President Samia’s rhetoric about revitalising CCM through accountability.
🔄 3. Political Context in Chato and CCM.
– Chato’s Symbolism:
As Magufuli’s home constituency, it holds ideological significance. Kalemani’s perceived stagnation has fueled internal dissent, with Makongo framing his bid as a return to Magufuli’s “anti-corruption” ethos while adapting to Samia’s reformist agenda.
– Factional Dynamics:
President Samia’s purge of Magufuli loyalists (e.g., sacking ministers like Kalemani) has created opportunities for new faces. Makongo’s challenge aligns with her efforts to weaken old guard networks.
– Electoral Vulnerability:
Kalemani retains sympathy for his “reserved posture” during political battles, but analysts note his support base is eroding amid CCM’s internal realignment.
📊 4. Broader Implications.
– CCM’s Renewal Strategy:
Samia’s “de-Gwajimanization” campaign targets figures tied to Magufuli’s authoritarian tendencies. Makongo’s emergence tests whether “new blood” can reconcile party unity with reform.
– Opposition Vacuum:
With the main opposition CHADEMA weakened by repression and boycotts, CCM primaries like Chato’s are the real battlegrounds for change.
Table: Key Contrasts Between Kalemani and Makongo.
| No. | Aspect. | Medard Kalemani (Incumbent). | Cosmas Makongo (Challenger). |
| 1.0 | Tenure. | 10 years (since 2015). | First-time candidate. |
| 2.0 | Political Alignment. | Magufuli loyalist; sidelined by Samia. | Magufuli-era insider; adapts to Samia’s reforms. |
| 3.0 | Core Message. | Experience and academic credentials. | New ideas, term limits, people’s participation. |
| 4.0 | Vulnerability. | Perceived stagnation; cabinet dismissal. | Ties to fading Magufuli faction. |
💎 Conclusion.
Makongo’s challenge epitomises CCM’s struggle to balance legacy loyalty with renewal demands under Samia. His emphasis on term limits and participatory governance resonates with Samia’s nominal reforms, but success hinges on navigating factional divides. The Chato race will signal whether CCM can authentically regenerate—or merely rebrand—its leadership amid Tanzania’s volatile political landscape.
Read more analysis by Rutashubanyuma Nestory
