Based on the legal and political context, Esther Bulaya party switch to CCM is “legally proper and strategically timed”, despite the apparent confusion over Parliament’s dissolution date. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:
1. Parliament Was Officially Dissolved on June 27, 2025.
– Tanzania’s Constitution mandates dissolution before general elections. Deputy Speaker Mussa Zungu confirmed Parliament’s dissolution on “June 27, 2025”. This date aligns with constitutional timelines, ending MPs’ legislative roles immediately.
– The planned August 3 meeting is a procedural formality to conclude pending business (e.g., budget sessions), not an extension of active parliamentary functions. Thus, MPs ceased being legislators on June 27.
2. No Legal Barrier to Party Switching Post-Dissolution.
– Once Parliament dissolves, MPs revert to private citizens. Tanzania’s laws do not restrict former MPs from changing parties during this interim period. Bulaya’s move to CCM in late June occurred “after” her official status as an MP ended.
– Attempts to “remove” her seat would be irrelevant post-dissolution since all seats automatically became vacant on June 27. The quest for her removal is legally nugatory.
3. CCM’s Strategic Acceptance of Bulaya.
– Bulaya framed her opposition stint as a “loan,” implying temporary alignment. Her return to CCM leverages her grassroots influence in Bunda and weakens CHADEMA, which expelled her in 2022.
– CCM benefits by absorbing a popular defector without internal strife. Obviously, CCM would not “weaken itself” by rejecting her—especially given her history as a former CCM insider.
4. Constitutional Ambiguity Works in Her Favor.
– Tanzania’s constitution lacks explicit clauses on party-switching during dissolution periods. This ambiguity allows Bulaya’s move to be interpreted as a private citizen rejoining CCM, not an MP violating party discipline.
– Opposition claims of impropriety are countered by CCM’s narrative: Bulaya “returned home” (nyumbani) after fulfilling her “loan” period.
5. Election Timelines Validate Her Decision.
– CCM began accepting nomination forms on “June 28, 2025”, one day after dissolution. Bulaya rejoined CCM before this process opened, positioning herself for candidacy in Bunda Urban. Delaying her switch could have disqualified her from CCM primaries.
Conclusion: Why Bulaya’s Move Was Proper.
– “Legally”:
Parliament dissolved on June 27, nullifying her MP status.
– “Politically”:
CCM capitalized on her return to gain an edge in Bunda, exploiting CHADEMA’s fragmentation.
– Timing:
Her switch preceded nomination processes, avoiding technical breaches.
The confusion stems from misunderstanding dissolution (effective June 27) versus Parliament’s ceremonial August 3 adjournment. Bulaya navigated this transition adeptly, ensuring compliance with both electoral laws and CCM’s interests.
Read more analysis by Rutashubanyuma Nestory
