Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE University of Dar es Salaam Academic Staff Assembly (UDASA) is set to host a highprofile political debate tomorrow at the UDSM main campus, as part of its efforts to deepen democratic engagement ahead of the October 29 General Election.
The debate will bring together the Secretaries General of all political parties participating in the election to present and defend their party manifestos before an audience of scholars, students and members of the public.
“This is a rare opportunity for both the academic community and citizens to directly question political parties about their plans for the country and seek clarity on issues highlighted in their manifestos,” said UDASA Chairman, Prof Elgidius Ichumbaki, while addressing journalists in Dar es Salaam yesterday.
Prof Ichumbaki stressed the importance of political accountability and the need for truth in manifesto promises. “We have carefully reviewed the manifestos and noticed that while some proposals are feasible, others are unrealistic or lack scientific grounding. This debate will help separate what is practically implementable from mere political rhetoric,” he said.
He added that if political parties take citizens’ opinions into account, they can improve their manifestos and include issues that truly matter to the people and the nation at large.
He also underlined that a manifesto should not be viewed solely as a campaign tool but as a binding social contract between a party and the electorate. “Parties must understand that once they present a manifesto, they are making a commitment to the people and must be ready to deliver on those promises,” Prof Ichumbaki stated.
In a move towards evidence-based political discourse, UDASA will push for what Prof Ichumbaki called “branding” of manifestos, highlighting promises that are implementable and realistic while discarding populist or misleading claims.
“After this debate, we want clear branding to be done only for promises that are realistically implementable,” he stressed. “Many promises cannot be fulfilled within five years, and others do not align with current advancements in science and technology.”
UDASA Secretary, Dr Dominikus Makukula, confirmed that all 18 political parties have been invited, and as of yesterday, 15 had already confirmed participation. These include CUF, NCCRMageuzi, TLP, UDP, CCM, ACT-Wazalendo, CHAUMA, ADC, MAKINI, DP, SAU, AAFP, CCK, UPDP, NRA, UMD, ADA TADEA, and NLD.
Dr Makukula reiterated the academic community’s expectation that political parties uphold the integrity of the term “manifesto.”
“The word ‘manifesto’ originates from Latin and refers to a list of truths or clear intentions presented by a leader when seeking a mandate. It should not be used to deceive or lure voters with false promises. Leaders who do so must be held accountable,” he said.
UDASA Deputy Chairman, Prof Daniel Shilla, added that the debate will serve as a critical tool for citizens to hold leaders accountable postelection.
“Parties must explain in detail what they intend to do. Sustainable and inclusive development cannot be built on vague promises. Voters need to scrutinise these manifestos, ask questions and demand answers,” he said.
The debate is expected to be highly interactive, with live questions from the audience and critical analysis from UDSM scholars, many of whom specialise in political science, economics and public policy.
As Tanzania heads to the polls, the UDASA debate marks a major milestone in the country’s democratic journey, placing citizens and academics at the centre of the political accountability process
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