Dodoma. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has accused the opposition Chadema of abandoning conventional politics and instead engaging in activism aimed at inciting unrest and public demonstrations. Speaking to journalists in Dodoma on Saturday, June 13, 2026, CCM's Director of Communication and Public Relations, Mr. John Mwenda, stated that Chadema's recent activities, including planned protests over electoral reforms, threaten national stability.
According to Mr. Mwenda, Chadema's shift from parliamentary engagement to street activism is a dangerous departure from democratic norms. He cited Chadema's calls for mass action against the government's proposed constitutional changes as evidence of this trend. 'We have observed with concern that Chadema is no longer interested in constructive dialogue but is instead mobilizing citizens for illegal demonstrations,' Mr. Mwenda said.
In response, Chadema's Secretary General, Mr. John Mnyika, rejected the accusations, describing them as baseless and an attempt to silence legitimate opposition. Speaking at a press conference in Dar es Salaam on the same day, Mr. Mnyika argued that CCM's claims are a diversion from the real issues, including economic hardships and lack of political freedoms. 'We are exercising our constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression. The government should address our concerns instead of making false allegations,' Mr. Mnyika said.
The exchange comes amid heightened political tensions in Tanzania, with opposition parties demanding electoral reforms ahead of the 2025 general elections. Analysts note that such accusations and counter-accusations are common in Tanzanian politics, but the current climate is particularly strained due to recent arrests of opposition activists and restrictions on public gatherings.
