Tundu Lissu Elected CHADEMA National Chairman, Heche as Deputy Chairman

Dar es Salaam. Tundu Antipas Lissu has been officially elected as the National Chairman of the Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), Tanzania’s leading opposition party. The announcement was made on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, following an overnight voting session during the party’s National Assembly meeting held in Dar es Salaam.

The official results of the election, held late on Tuesday evening, show that Lissu received 51.5% of the votes, while his challenger, Freeman Mbowe, secured 48.3%. This narrow margin reflects the strong competition between the two and the deep engagement from party members throughout the voting process.

Shortly after his victory, Lissu took to his X account to share his gratitude and optimism, writing, “This victory belongs to all of us!”

In the same election, John Heche, a strong supporter of Lissu, was elected as Deputy National Chairman, securing over 57% of the votes. His victory further solidified the party’s commitment to unity and democratic leadership.

READ MORE: Tundu Lissu’s Run for CHADEMA Chairmanship: A Defining Moment for Democracy Inside the Party

Outgoing Chairman Freeman Mbowe, who has led the party since September 14, 2004, demonstrated grace and humility in accepting the election results. Even before the results were officially announced, Mbowe congratulated Lissu and his team. “I wholeheartedly accept the decision of our General Assembly concluded this morning, January 22, 2025,” said Mbowe. “I congratulate Hon. Tundu Lissu and his colleagues for being entrusted with the leadership of our party. I wish them all the best as they take CHADEMA forward.”

Mbowe’s nearly two decades of leadership are celebrated for the transformative reforms and growth he brought to CHADEMA. Despite stepping down, his influence remains a cornerstone of the party’s progress. Reflecting on the election, he acknowledged its challenges: “This election has left wounds among us. My advice to the incoming leaders is to heal the party.”

During his first speech as chairman, Tundu Lissu praised the democratic process that led to his election, describing it as historic and setting a new benchmark for political parties in Tanzania. “We have conducted an election like no other in our party’s history,” Lissu said. “We set a golden standard that any other party in this country must strive to meet. The election was free, transparent, and fair. Every vote was counted, and every vote counted. These are legitimate results.”

Lissu also commended Mbowe for his honorable conduct throughout the election process. “You have shown great respect by accepting the results even before they were officially announced and by congratulating us. This is a testament to the values we uphold as a party of justice and fairness.”

The election, held at the Mlimani City Conference Hall, was widely hailed as a transparent and inclusive process. While acknowledging minor challenges, Lissu emphasized that the integrity of the process remained intact.

With fresh leadership under Tundu Lissu and John Heche, CHADEMA looks ahead with optimism and a renewed commitment to democracy, justice, and equality. Supporters believe this new chapter will strengthen the party’s mission to serve the people of Tanzania and uphold its core values.