Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE youth wing of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party in Dar es Salaam has issued a strong warning to politicians and activists who discourage people from participating in the General Elections by claiming that no significant changes have been made to the electoral laws.
Speaking to reporters on June 24, 2025, at the headquarters of the CCM Youth Wing (UVCCM) in Dar es Salaam, youth representative Isack Sumbali stated that major reforms have been implemented in the electoral framework. One of the most significant changes is the transformation of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) into an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Sumbali emphasized that INEC now enjoys increased independence in two key areas: institutional autonomy and operational freedom. Additionally, a new law has been enacted that changes the way commission members are selected. Previously, the President appointed them directly, but under the new system, the process is more transparent and independent.
He further noted that INEC now has the authority to manage its own financial resources. Unlike in the past when it relied heavily on funding from international donors such as the UNDP, this year’s general election will be fully funded by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.
Another significant milestone, according to Sumbali, is that for the first time in Tanzania’s history, inmates in prisons will be allowed to vote. Previously, prisoners were not even registered to vote. This change demonstrates the expanded freedom granted to the electoral body.
“There have also been reforms to curb gender-based violence during elections, and technology is now being used to improve voter registration processes. These reforms are aimed at ensuring a free and fair election. Therefore, it is misleading to claim that the elections will not take place—these changes show the government’s commitment to democratic progress,” Sumbali asserted.
On his part Secretary of the Youth Wing Senate of CCM in Dar es Salaam Region, Mabula Marco encouraged young people to participate by collecting nomination forms for positions such as Members of Parliament and Councilors. He also called on them to vote for CCM’s presidential candidate, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
“For CCM youth aspiring to run for office, the party has created a fair process to ensure that capable and qualified leaders emerge,” Mabula said.
He added, “In the past, positions were bought—people with money could bribe their way in. But our party has stopped this practice. You can’t bribe more than 8,000 people, and this is a significant reform made by our party.”
Mabula stressed that CCM is not ready to hand over power because citizens have seen the development achievements under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has implemented over 95percent of the party’s manifesto.
Also speaking at the press briefing, Antipas Pamba highlighted that according to the national population and housing census, 70% of Tanzania’s population is youth. Therefore, young people are the primary beneficiaries of the government’s development initiatives.
He pointed out the government has specifically targeted sectors that benefit ordinary citizens and youth, creating a conducive environment for economic activities.
“The government has continued to provide subsidies to poor households—approximately 961.5bn/- has been disbursed to support the most vulnerable. It has also funded free education from primary school to Form Six, using over 1.3 tri/-,” Pamba explained.
He further noted that the government has invested 2.7 tri/- in student loans for higher education and vocational training to support youth from low-income families. Additionally, 709bn/- has been allocated for subsidizing fertilizers to support farmers.
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