Tanzanian opposition figure Godbless Lema has formally returned to the Chadema party and issued a public apology, according to reports from Tanzanian media on May 22, 2026. Lema, a former member of parliament for Siha constituency, had left the party in 2020 after losing the party's presidential nomination to Tundu Lissu.
In a statement, Lema expressed regret for his previous departure and actions that may have harmed the party. He said he was returning to strengthen the opposition ahead of the 2025 general elections. Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe welcomed Lema back, noting the party's commitment to unity.
Lema's return is seen as a boost for Chadema, which has faced internal divisions in recent years. The party is the main opposition in Tanzania, led by Mbowe and presidential candidate Tundu Lissu.
