Dodoma, Tanzania – Salum Mwalimu, the presidential candidate for the Chaumma party, officially kicked off his campaign on Tuesday by collecting nomination forms from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices in Njedengwa.
The event was marked by a spirited and colorful motorcade that attracted hundreds of supporters, showcasing a vibrant and determined political movement.
Mwalimu arrived at INEC at 11:57 a.m. in a striking white open-top vehicle waving to enthusiastic supporters. Accompanied by his running mate, Devotha Minja, and party chairman Hashim Rungwe, the convoy featured more than 120 motorcycles adorned with Chaumma flags, along with trumpets, drums, and dancing youth, creating an energetic atmosphere reminiscent of the recent nomination event for President Samia Suluhu Hassan (CCM).
Security was notably heightened around the INEC compound, which is naturally fortified by surrounding rocky hills, demonstrating the importance of the occasion. The media received special accreditation, reflecting the event’s high profile.
The candidates and their entourage remained outside for over 15 minutes, engaging with the crowd through dancing and waving before entering the INEC premises. Shortly afterward, #Chaumma Mainland deputy secretary-general Benson Kigaila and former Special Seats MPs Catherine Ruge and Susan Kiwanga joined the gathering to meet the candidates.
INEC officials allowed a larger-than-usual number of supporters into the grounds—second only to the ruling party CCM.
Following the submission of nomination documents, Mwalimu addressed journalists, pledging a campaign anchored on integrity and transformative change. “I owe nothing to anyone. I am clean; I have not promoted anyone or favoured anyone. My running mate is also clean, and you know her record,” he declared confidently.
He promised that if elected, his foremost priority from State House would be to initiate a new constitution aimed at reforming outdated and ineffective national laws. “The time for change is now. We come from a clean party that is close to the people, and we will not fear making bold decisions,” Mwalimu emphasized.
At 12:43 p.m., the vibrant Chaumma convoy departed the INEC offices, maintaining the high energy of arrival. Notably, many vehicles along the motorcade were driven by women, signaling a campaign with strong female participation and leadership.
This event signifies a key moment in Tanzania’s upcoming electoral cycle, as presidential hopefuls prepare their platforms and mobilize grassroots support amid an increasingly competitive political landscape.
