On January 18th, 2025, I had the honour to be invited on national television Tanzania Broad Casting Corporation (TBC1) to witness and do a live political analysis of the ongoing CCM Special National Congress taking place in Dodoma.
The political air was thick with anticipation, much like the suspense preceding the announcement of a new pope in the Vatican.
Midafternoon, the motorcade of the President, Samia Suluhu Hassan rolled through the avenue with regal precision, a spectacle of power and poise.
At the front, green motorbikes glided in synchronized formation, their riders adorned with crisp uniforms signaling the arrival of a distinguished in chief presence.
Behind them two green SUVs in CCM party regalia, flanked the procession, their steady movement exuding authority.
And following closely were a fleet of black SUVs sleek and imposing, their tinted windows reflecting the golden glow of the afternoon sun.
The convoy moved with seamless grace, destination Jakaya Kikwete Convention Center, where the nation and the world awaited.
Who would be the next deputy chairman of Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM)? It was a big question in the minds of voters. Under article 115(1)-(4) of CCM party constitution, the role and powers of the deputy chairperson of CCM party for the mainland are stipulated.
By 3:46 p.m., at exactly three P.M forty-six minutes and thirteen seconds, the president grabbed the microphone for a sort of Fumata Bianca statement. the wait was over.
Steven Wasira emerged as CCM’s unanimous choice for Deputy Chairperson, a decision laden with historical significance.
This pivotal moment unfolded not just in the presence of Tanzanians but before representatives of Africa’s leading liberation movements, including FRELIMO, MPLA, CNDD-FDD, ANC, ZANU PF, RPF, and NRM. It was a testament to the enduring legacy of CCM as a political heavyweight in Africa.
There were international stakeholders, in the tapestry of diplomacy, where notable ambassadors of China, the United States, Vietnam and including many foreign emissaries also witnessed this historic move.
For President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has carved her legacy under the 4R vision, and through transformative projects and democratic ideals, and foreign policy, this move was another stroke of brilliance.
Serving both as the nation’s leader and CCM’s Chairperson, Samia showcased her unmatched ability to maneuver the labyrinth of political strategy with precision.
The nomination of Wasira was not just a routine appointment but a calculated victory for CCM as it gears up for the general election, to meet its party manifesto objectives and national objectives.
Picking a key figure of CCM’s Institutional Memory.
When Honourable Stephen Wasira, the new deputy chairperson grabbed the microphone, a reflection of CCM’s moralistic and political character was reflected. Speaking with a charismatic tone he said quote;
“I stand here to say just two points, one my objective to win the election and get into power, as the requirements of article 5 of our (CCM) Constitution.
Secondly, we are a party of peace and reconciliation, and this reconciliation is not to a specific individual but to the whole society, the Tanzanian people and foreign nationals living in this country, we all have a stake for the best of this country and CCM is a party of peace”
Stephen Wasira is not just a name in Tanzanian politics; he is an institution. His short speech reflected moral character, humility, confidence in the experience power and confidence in the Tanzanian people, and Confidence for the people of Africa who believe in the Tanzanian leadership.
He was born in 1945, and at the age of 80 years, Wasira makes his own history of being the oldest deputy chairperson for mainland and for the party in the history of CCM.
Retired president Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete at 12:59pm Sunday afternoon, January 19th 2025, he said this on Honourable Steven Wasira, quote “Wasira is an experienced leader, a tough political fighter, courageous and confident leader, and the party has confidence in him.”
His journey with CCM dates back to its inception during the union of TANU and Afro-Shirazi. His advocacy for this historic merger at the 17th TANU General Meeting cemented his role as a foundational figure in the party’s history.
In the political archives, Wasira’s contributions stand tall. As a Regional Commissioner and Party Secretary for Mara in the late 1970s, he demonstrated leadership that has since become a benchmark for public service. His deep-seated knowledge of the party and its ethos makes him a guardian of CCM’s identity, a role few can fulfill with the same authority.
The Political Calculus Behind the Choice:
President Samia’s decision to endorse Wasira was neither whimsical nor routine.
It was a strategic move. Wasira’s appointment brings a unique blend of experience, wisdom, and loyalty to CCM’s leadership.
While detractors may focus on his age, those who understand Tanzanian politics recognize the value of seasoned statesmanship.
Experience, wisdom and character are the whole ball game.
This pragmatic statesman is not merely a repository of political memory.
Wasira is also a pragmatic leader, capable of navigating the intricate dynamics of governance and party politics. His presence within CCM’s top brass serves as both a stabilizing force and a compass for future directions.
An Asset beyond compare
For CCM and President Samia, Wasira represents unwavering loyalty and steadfast commitment.
In a political landscape often fraught with factionalism, his neutrality in the party by avoiding groups and internal political tribes of bevvies who yearn for power towards 2030 Wasira is a political linchpin and unifying figure. His allegiance to the party and its chairperson underscores his role as a protector of CCM’s integrity and interests.
To date, Wasira is among the few living statesmen who have served with all presidencies, since Mwl. Julius Kambarage Nyerere the father of the nation to President Samia Suluhu Hassan as far as his appointment and election to be the deputy chairperson for the mainland is concerned.
His tenure as Minister of State in the President’s Office for Relations and Coordination under President Kikwete showcased his adeptness at bridging divides. His emphasis on reconciliation, highlighted in his inaugural speech as Deputy Chairperson, reflects his commitment to fostering unity in both the party and the nation.
Among other things he said quote: “there are so many experienced leaders in this Congress, there are so many senior elders in this congress, therefore I am not exceptional”. End quote.
It was a moral reflection of humility when risen into power.
A legacy of integrity:
Stephen Wasira’s rise in Tanzanian politics is not a tale of chance but a narrative of diligence and unwavering ethics.
He has served as diplomatic emissary in the USA, in his very early days of leadership experience. His career, spanning decades, has been devoid of scandal or impropriety. Even during his brief departure from CCM in 1995, his decision was driven by a principled commitment to serving his constituents, not personal ambition.
His return to CCM and continued contributions underscore his dedication to the party’s vision and mission.
For President Samia, having Wasira by her side is not merely a matter of political convenience but a strategic advantage.
Stephen Wasira is more than a leader; he is a statesman of exceptional caliber. His appointment is a testament to President Samia’s foresight and CCM’s commitment to reinforcing its leadership with competence and integrity.
The country looks forward to a vibrant presidential election, where principles of good governance, transparency and fair election shall take place.
And with President Samia in office, the party goes unified with smooth internal cohesion for a better Tanzanian future and for a better African future and for a better world.
Read Another opinion about Steven Wasira’s appointment means all is not well in CCM
