Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s impressive run to the final of the Caf Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2026 has been further recognised after four of the country’s players were named in the tournament’s Best XI.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the team following the conclusion of the competition, with finalists Tanzania and champions Senegal dominating the selection with four players each. The recognition highlights the growing strength of Tanzania’s youth football programme and the impact made by the Young Taifa Stars throughout the tournament.

Tanzania reached the final of the continental championship for the first time in the country’s history before narrowly losing to Senegal on penalties at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday. Despite falling short of the title, the East Africans won praise for their fearless displays and consistency against some of the continent’s strongest youth teams.

The country’s representation in the Best XI includes defender Hussein Mbegu, midfielder and tournament Player of the Tournament Issa Chole, playmaker Dismas Athanasi and winger Razaki Mbegelendi. All four players played pivotal roles in Tanzania’s memorable campaign.

Chole emerged as one of the standout performers at the tournament, leading the team from midfield and earning the competition’s top individual award. Athanasi also enjoyed an outstanding tournament, finishing as the Golden Boot winner with three goals while providing creativity and leadership in attack.

Mbegu was instrumental in Tanzania’s solid defensive displays, while Mbegelendi’s pace and attacking threat caused problems for opponents throughout the competition. Senegal’s champions were represented by goalkeeper Assane Sarr, who won the Golden Glove award, defenders Thierno Sow and Lamine Mbengue, and winger Mouhamed Wagne.

Their contributions helped the Young Lions of Teranga secure a second U-17 AFCON title in three editions, having also lifted the trophy in Algeria in 2023. Hosts Morocco, who finished fourth after losing to Egypt in the third-place playoff, contributed defender Adam Soudi and forward Mohamed Amine Moustache to the Best XI. Egypt’s Ahmed Abdelhalim completed the team after helping his nation secure the bronze medal.

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Africa has stories powerful enough to move the world, yet very few African media brands have managed to establish true global influence. This raises an important question for the future of the continent’s media industry: can African media build global brands, or will it remain largely dependent on international platforms to tell its stories? For decades, global media narratives about Africa have been shaped primarily by international organisations.

When major global events occur on the continent, audiences often turn first to international broadcasters for coverage and interpretation. This is not necessarily because African media lacks talent or stories.

In many cases, it reflects deeper structural challenges involving investment, scale, technology, and strategy. Yet the media landscape is changing rapidly, and for the first time in history, African media has an opportunity to compete globally without relying entirely on traditional systems of distribution.

The rise of digital platforms has removed many of the barriers that once limited African content. Today, a podcast recorded in Nairobi, a documentary produced in Lagos, or a Swahili commentary show from Dar es Salaam can reach audiences across continents instantly.

Distribution is no longer controlled exclusively by satellite networks and international broadcasters. Smartphones, streaming platforms, YouTube, TikTok, and social media have created a more open playing field.

However, access alone does not automatically create global brands. Visibility is not the same as influence.

One of the biggest challenges facing African media is consistency in long-term brand building. Many media organisations focus heavily on daily survival generating traffic, managing operational costs, and competing for advertising revenue.

While these pressures are understandable, they often leave little room for strategic investment in global positioning. Building a global media brand requires patience, quality control, innovation, and sustained identity over many years.

Another challenge is confidence. Too often, African media underestimates the value of its own stories.

In an attempt to imitate international formats, some organisations lose the authenticity that could have differentiated them globally in the first place. Yet authenticity is increasingly becoming one of the most valuable assets in modern media.

Global audiences are no longer looking only for polished international perspectives; they are seeking real voices, local insight, and culturally grounded storytelling. Monetisation remains another major obstacle.

Global media expansion requires funding, yet many African media houses operate within constrained advertising markets. International platforms capture a large share of digital advertising revenue while local publishers struggle to convert audience growth into sustainable income.

Without stronger business models, even promising media brands risk stagnation. This is why partnerships could become increasingly important.

Collaborations between African media companies, technology firms, investors, and content creators may help accelerate scale and visibility. Rather than competing in isolation, regional cooperation could strengthen the continent’s media ecosystem and create brands capable of reaching global audiences more effectively.

There is also a generational shift taking place. Younger African creators are already building international audiences through podcasts, YouTube channels, digital publications, and creator-led platforms.

In many cases, they are moving faster than traditional media organisations because they understand digital culture intuitively. They engage directly with audiences, adapt quickly to trends, and build communities rather than simply broadcasting information.

Traditional media should pay close attention to this shift. The future of global African media influence may not come from replicating old models.

It may emerge from hybrid ecosystems that combine journalism, storytelling, entertainment, technology, and creator culture. Importantly, building a global brand does not mean abandoning local audiences.

In fact, strong global brands are often deeply rooted in their local identity. The global success of African music, fashion, and entertainment demonstrates this clearly.

Audiences around the world are increasingly drawn to content that feels distinct and culturally confident. African media therefore faces both a challenge and an opportunity.

The challenge is overcoming structural limitations, inconsistent investment, and fragmented strategies. The opportunity is that the world is more connected and more curious about Africa than ever before.

The question is no longer whether African media can reach global audiences. Technologically, that is already possible.

The real question is whether African media organisations are ready to think beyond survival and begin building institutions, brands, and stories designed not only for local relevance, but for lasting global influence. .

Dodoma. The President of the Tanzania Teachers’ Union (TTU), Mr Suleiman Ikomba, has been arraigned at Dodoma Resident Magistrate’s Court and read 14 charges involving corruption allegations, forming a criminal gang, and economic sabotage.

Mr Ikomba appeared in court on Monday, June 8, 2026, where he joined nine other CWT leaders who are facing the same charges filed by the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB). Initially, his co-accused were arraigned on May 25, 2026, when he was absent, but he has now joined them, including former TTU president, Ms Leah Ulaya, former secretary general, Mr Maganga Japhet, treasurer, Mr Nashon Kidudu, and the current secretary general, Mr Joseph Misalaba.

Others are Mr Baraka Mbonalibha, who is alleged in the charge sheet to have been an internal auditor, Mr Wambura Kihengu, Ms Angelina Wambura, as well as Pyrite and Industries Company Limited The prosecution alleges that the accused jointly obtained Sh2.2 billion contrary to the TTU constitution, and also benefited from Sh1.3 billion from Pyrite and Industries Company Limited, with the intention of influencing a tender for the production of T-shirts and caps for the union. After the charges relating to economic sabotage were read, Mr Ikomba was not required to enter a plea, as the court does not have jurisdiction to hear and determine such matters at this stage.

Before Principal Resident Magistrate Denis Mpelembwa, State Attorney Gothard Mwingira told the court that investigations into the case were incomplete. However, Magistrate Mwingira also said the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had not yet issued consent on whether the case should proceed in the current court or be transferred to the Economic Crimes Court.

Defence lawyer, Mr Meshack Ngamando, said bringing the accused to court before investigations has completely denied them freedom, as they remain in custody. “Out of the 14 charges facing them, some are bailable.

The delay in completing investigations means the accused continue to remain in remand, whereas the case could have started, and some of them could be out on bail under conditions while attending court from home,” said advocate Ngamando. In his ruling, Magistrate Mpelembwa ordered the prosecution to speed up investigations and complete all required procedures so that the case can begin promptly and ensure that the DPP’s consent is obtained, so that justice can be served.

Meanwhile, TTU, in a meeting held on Monday, June 1, 2026, under the Vice President, Mr Shaban Ambindwile, proposed the name of James Asagwile as its new treasurer. The National Executive Council (NEC) meeting said it was empowered under Article 31(c) of TTU to appoint one of its members as treasurer, while the vice president and deputy secretary general positions have been temporarily filled In a related development, the Dodoma Resident Magistrate’s Court has adjourned an economic sabotage case involving employees of the Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical, and Services Agency (Temesa) to Monday, June 22, 2026, after the prosecution informed the court that investigations were incomplete The accused in the case include Lazaro Kilahara, Mathias Rutaguza, Sambayeti Magoko, Kennedy Manene, Peter Bongole, Clavery Busunzu, Mbisho Kinguti, Renatha Juma, Vicent Lutebuka, Michael Assey, Caesar Chambo, Nassoro Igangule, Deus Matiku, and Kentra Tanzania Limited The court was also informed that, in addition to incomplete investigations, consent from the DPP to proceed with the trial has not yet been obtained.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Rashid Mlegelo produced a dominant display to defeat Zambia’s Douglas “Bokya the Road Warrior” Chilufya in the first round of their featherweight contest at the ANZA MMA Pro 002 event in Kenya last Saturday.

Mlegelo secured victory via a rear-naked choke submission, forcing his opponent to tap out before the end of the opening round in a non-title bout contested at a weight limit of 66.5kg. The victory marked another important step in Mlegelo’s professional MMA career as he moves closer to a potential title shot.

According to his camp, two more victories could earn him an opportunity to challenge for the featherweight belt. The bout was sanctioned by the Kenya Oriental Combat Sports Federation and attracted fighters from across the region.

Speaking after the contest, Mlegelo thanked God for the victory and revealed that he had been fully aware of the challenge posed by Chilufya, who boasts a strong background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. “It was a tough fight because my opponent had extensive experience in Jiu-Jitsu competitions.

He has won multiple gold medals at the East African Open, so I knew I had to remain focused from the start,” said Mlegelo. Despite his opponent’s grappling credentials, the Tanzanian fighter remained composed and executed his game plan effectively to secure a convincing finish.

Mlegelo’s coach, Xavier Gerniers, praised the fighter’s performance, describing it as a proud moment for both the team and the country. “With his victory at ANZA MMA Pro 002, Rashid not only made his team proud but also represented Tanzania with distinction through a dominant performance,” said Gerniers.

The coach added that the victory carried special significance as it came during a week that marked the first anniversary of the passing of Coach Cole, a respected figure within the team. “In a week that marks one year since we lost Coach Cole, Rashid ensured that the legacy he left behind continues to thrive.

For that, the entire team is proud and grateful,” he said. The victory further strengthens Mlegelo’s growing reputation on the regional MMA circuit and underlines Tanzania’s rising presence in combat sports as local fighters continue to make their mark on international stages.

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Mara. What began as a simple request at a medical camp in northern Tanzania has grown into a remarkable story of compassion, resilience and global solidarity that is transforming the lives of vulnerable girls in Mara Region.

In January 2026, when the Give a Future Foundation was conducting one of its free medical outreach camps, representatives from the Hope for Girls Centre approached the organisers with a modest question. Could the girls at the shelter also receive medical services? For Rishen Patel, founder of Delaware Investments and the Give a Future Foundation, the answer was immediate.

“Bring everyone,” he said. At the time, few could have imagined that those two words would spark a partnership that would eventually attract international philanthropists, local volunteers, business leaders and conservation tourism operators, all rallying around a common cause: protecting girls from female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage and other harmful practices.

Today, the Hope for Girls Centre in Mugumu is home to more than 100 girls who have escaped or are at risk of abuse. The centre provides shelter, education and emotional support, helping them rebuild lives that many feared would be defined by trauma.

Yet what struck Patel most during his first visit was not their hardship. “Despite everything they had been through, they were smiling, studying, dreaming and planning their futures,” he recalled.

“I left knowing we had a responsibility to do more.” As the centre’s reputation spread, more girls sought refuge there.

The growing numbers soon stretched the facility beyond its limits, with many girls living in crowded rented accommodation. The challenge was clear: the centre needed a permanent home.

A major breakthrough came in 2025 when renowned Indian actor and philanthropist Nagarjuna Akkineni learned about the project during a visit to the Serengeti. After meeting the girls and hearing their stories, he pledged to cover food costs for the entire centre for a year.

He later committed substantial financial support towards the construction of a permanent safe house complex. The planned Serengeti Safe House Complex is expected to provide far more than accommodation.

The facility will include modern dormitories, classrooms, vocational training workshops, a library, healthcare services, recreational facilities and agricultural projects aimed at improving food security and sustainability. For Hope for Girls and Women founder Rhobi Samwelly, herself a survivor of FGM, the project carries deep personal significance.

“I was cut because when I was a girl, no safe house existed for me to run to,” she said. “That pain is why I build safe houses today.

Because of the support we have received, construction of the modern Serengeti Safe House Complex will start soon.” She credits a growing network of supporters, including Mapito Safari Camp Serengeti, whose staff regularly volunteer at the centre, offering mentorship, life-skills training and practical support to the girls.

What makes the initiative unique is the diversity of people behind it. From local community members and tourism operators to international donors and philanthropists, the project has evolved into a global movement built on a shared belief that every girl deserves safety, dignity and opportunity.

In a region where harmful traditional practices continue to threaten the futures of many young girls, the Hope for Girls Centre stands as a powerful reminder that change often begins with a single act of kindness. And in this case, it all started with one simple request and one simple answer: “Bring everyone.

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Arusha. Young people from East and Central Africa have been urged to take the lead in combating drug abuse by educating communities, promoting prevention efforts, and actively participating in initiatives aimed at curbing the use and trafficking of illicit substances in their countries.

The call was made by Tanzania’s Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) Commissioner General, Mr Aretas Lyimo, during the closing of the three-day East African Youth Forum on Drugs 2026 (EAYFD), held in Arusha. Mr Lyimo challenged young people to reject any involvement in drug use and trafficking, stressing that their choices today will shape the future of their nations.

He said young people are a critical force in preventing drug abuse and should be regarded as partners in addressing a challenge that continues to affect communities and hinder economic development across the region. “You should not be seen only as beneficiaries of anti-drug programmes, but as key partners in designing and implementing sustainable solutions to this cross-border challenge,” said Mr Lyimo.

“From today, go back to your communities and become ambassadors in the fight against drugs. I believe you will be part of the solution to this problem,” he added.

He said drug abuse and trafficking remain serious threats to social welfare and economic growth across many African countries, calling for stronger cooperation among governments, institutions, and young people. Mr Lyimo also urged stakeholders to invest more in awareness and prevention programmes to protect the younger generation, which is expected to drive future development.

“Prevention remains the most effective way to reduce drug abuse. We must invest in life-skills education, strengthen family support systems, and create safe environments where young people can openly discuss the challenges they face without fear,” he said.

The forum, held under the theme “Accelerating Drug Demand Reduction among East African Youth,” brought together more than 200 youth leaders from Tanzania, Zanzibar, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, Somalia, Malawi, Mauritania, and South Africa. Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Forum Coordinator, Ms Halima Omar, said the event aimed to bring together youth leaders from institutions and organisations involved in drug control efforts to share experiences and discuss challenges in tackling drug abuse.

“We recognise that young people are among the most affected by drug abuse, yet they are also the generation we rely on to shape effective youth policies and secure the future of our nations. That is why we felt there was important work to be done,” she said.

Ms Omar said addressing drug abuse requires collective action and cross-border knowledge sharing. “This challenge cannot be solved in isolation.

That is why we organised this forum for the first time, bringing together young people from different countries to discuss how we can help youth break free from drug dependence, whether it is used as an escape from personal challenges or for recreation,” she said. A participant from Kenya, Mr George Ochieng, said the forum had strengthened young leaders by equipping them with practical skills and knowledge to become agents of change at the community, national, and regional levels.

“We also had the opportunity to discuss youth leadership, mental health, advocacy, and youth participation in policy-making processes within our respective countries,” he said. .

Dar es Salaam. As Tanzania continues to invest heavily in expanding access to education, attention is increasingly turning to a critical question: how can teachers be supported to deliver quality learning in the classroom? The answer was at the centre of the National Teaching Skills Competition awards ceremony held in Dar es Salaam on May 6, 2026, where 35 teachers from pre-primary, primary and secondary schools were recognised for excellence and innovation in teaching.

The winners will receive plots of land near their workplaces as part of a government effort to motivate teachers and encourage professional excellence. Speaking during the event, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government), Prof Riziki Shemdoe, said teachers remain the backbone of national development because they shape the knowledge, skills and values of future generations.

He urged teachers across the country to continue embracing innovative teaching methods and modern technologies to help learners develop critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills needed in the 21st century. “The government will continue to value teachers’ contributions by improving working conditions and providing incentives that enhance teaching and learning,” he said.

The competition comes at a time when Tanzania is implementing major education reforms under the Education Sector Development Plan and the new competency-based curriculum, both of which place greater emphasis on learner-centred teaching, digital skills and improved learning outcomes. Education experts say rewarding teachers for excellence is increasingly important as the country seeks to address persistent learning challenges, particularly in foundational literacy and numeracy.

According to the Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE), the 2026 competition focused on strengthening teaching competencies in reading, writing and arithmetic, commonly known as the 3Rs. For pre-primary education, special attention was placed on helping children master letter sounds, an area that has been identified as a challenge for many learners.

TIE Director General Dr Aneth Komba said the competition aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of ensuring that every child can read fluently by the time they reach Standard Three. “The aim is to improve teaching and learning of foundational skills so that children acquire the competencies needed for future learning,” she said.

Dr Komba noted that preparations for the competition involved analysing learner performance data from the National Examinations Council of Tanzania and reviewing new curriculum requirements to identify priority areas for improvement. A total of 3,153 teachers registered for the competition through a digital platform known as the National Teaching Skills Competition System.

Of those, 1,263 uploaded lesson videos for assessment. The competition was conducted at council, regional and national levels, with judges evaluating lesson planning, content delivery, learner participation, use of ICT, teaching aids, continuous assessment and the promotion of 21st-century skills.

The initiative reflects a growing shift towards professional development that recognises classroom practice rather than focusing solely on academic qualifications. Education analyst and lecturer, Dr Thomas Jabir, said teacher motivation remains one of the most important factors influencing learning outcomes.

“When teachers are recognised for good performance, it boosts morale and encourages others to improve. Such programmes also create opportunities for sharing best practices across schools and regions,” he said.

He added that as Tanzania expands school infrastructure and enrolment, equal attention must be paid to classroom instruction because learning outcomes depend largely on teacher effectiveness. Data from government education reports show that Tanzania has made significant progress in increasing school enrolment over the past decade.

However, education stakeholders have repeatedly pointed to the need for stronger teacher support systems, including continuous professional development, mentorship and access to digital teaching resources. The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Culture and Sports, Husna Sekiboko, said improving education requires collaboration among teachers, parents, learners and community leaders.

She noted that ongoing reforms in education governance and management are intended to strengthen service delivery and improve student learning outcomes nationwide. .

Arusha. The High Court of Tanzania, Sumbawanga Sub-Registry, has conditionally discharged Mr Ng’umbu Kapeza, popularly known as Masanja, after noting a reconciliation reached with his former wife, whom he attacked with a machete, with the pair later restoring their relationship and even having a child after the incident.

The ruling was delivered on Friday, May 29, 2026, by Justice Thadeo Mwenempazi, who ordered that the accused be released on condition that he does not commit any criminal offence for 12 months. The court said that despite the seriousness of the offence and the severe harm suffered by the victims, it also considered the reconciliation between the parties, the remorse shown by the accused, and the fact that peace had been restored within the family.

Mr Kapeza faced two counts of attempted murder, contrary to section 211(a) of the Penal Code, and causing grievous harm, contrary to section 222(a) of the same law. According to court records, the incident occurred on the night of December 23, 2023, at the Kashelami area in Mpanda District, Katavi Region, when the accused attacked the home of John and Tatu while they were asleep.

The court heard that Tatu was formerly married to the accused before they separated, and she began living with John. It was alleged that the accused, together with two others, forcibly entered the house and attacked the victims using machetes.

In evidence presented in court, Tatu identified the attacker as her former husband. The matter was reported to the police, and investigations commenced.

Medical reports from Katavi Referral Hospital showed that the victims sustained severe injuries, including broken bones and permanent disability. The accused was arrested on January 18, 2024, and later gave caution statements admitting involvement in the incident.

During the trial, he pleaded guilty to all charges and admitted the facts presented by the prosecution under section 198 of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA). Following the plea, the court convicted him without calling witnesses.

During mitigation, the prosecution urged the court to impose a harsh sentence given the seriousness of the offence and the injuries sustained, despite the accused having no prior criminal record. The defence, however, asked the court to consider that he was a first-time offender, had pleaded guilty early, had shown remorse, and had cooperated fully with investigations.

It was further argued that the incident was triggered by emotional anger after the accused allegedly found Tatu with another man in circumstances where the separation process had not been formally completed. The court was also told that the accused is a father of a large family with four wives and 28 children, six of whom are still young and dependent on him.

A key submission in mitigation was that after the incident, the accused and Tatu reconciled, resumed their relationship, and even had a child together. The court was further informed that Tatu had forgiven the accused and appeared in court to confirm the reconciliation.

In his ruling, Justice Mwenempazi said the court considered both aggravating and mitigating factors. He noted that despite the seriousness of the offence and the severe injuries suffered by the victims, the accused was a first-time offender, had shown remorse, reconciled with the victims, and restored peace within the family.

The judge further observed that a custodial sentence could disrupt the reconciliation already achieved between the parties involved. For those reasons, the court invoked its powers under section 38(1) of the Penal Code and ordered that the accused be released conditionally for 12 months, during which he must not commit any criminal offence, failing which he would be brought back before the court for sentencing in accordance with the law.

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Dar es Salaam. The government has dismissed concerns that President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recent state visit to Russia could affect Tanzania’s diplomatic relations or economic cooperation with other countries, insisting that the country remains committed to an open and interest-driven foreign policy.

Speaking on Sunday, June 7, 2026, Minister of State in the President’s Office (Planning and Investment), Prof Kitila Mkumbo, said Tanzania would continue engaging with all partners based on national interests and development priorities. He was responding to questions from journalists on whether the visit could strain relations with countries that have imposed sanctions on Russia.

Prof Mkumbo said it was important to distinguish between diplomatic relations and economic sanctions, noting that many countries that have imposed restrictions on Russia continue to maintain formal diplomatic ties with Moscow. “No country has completely severed diplomatic relations with Russia.

Even countries that have imposed sanctions continue to communicate and cooperate in various areas,” he said. He explained that economic sanctions do not necessarily signify a breakdown in diplomatic engagement, as countries often maintain political and diplomatic channels while applying targeted restrictions in specific sectors.

“It is important to distinguish between sanctions and diplomatic relations. Diplomatic relations remain intact.

Countries continue to communicate and cooperate in various areas,” he added. Prof Mkumbo reiterated Tanzania’s longstanding position in favour of resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy rather than military confrontation.

“We want all conflicts to be resolved peacefully. The world should return to an international order that respects the principles of the United Nations,” he said.

He stressed that Tanzania would continue pursuing a foreign policy guided by national economic interests, while avoiding alignment with competing geopolitical blocs. “Tanzania looks at its economic interests.

In today’s competitive investment environment, we cannot choose friends based on their conflicts, but on what serves our national interest,” he said. According to Prof Mkumbo, the current global environment requires countries to engage with a broad range of partners, including nations with differing political positions, in pursuit of investment, trade and development opportunities.

He said Tanzania would continue strengthening cooperation with traditional and emerging partners across the world, including countries in the West, Asia and the Middle East. The government, he added, remains committed to expanding investment, infrastructure development, and trade partnerships while maintaining an independent foreign policy.

Prof Mkumbo emphasised that Tanzania would continue participating actively in international diplomacy while safeguarding its sovereignty, and economic priorities. “We will engage with everyone.

This is a world of broad cooperation, but we will always be guided by Tanzania’s national interests,” he said. .

Dar es Salaam. The Opposition party, Chadema has expelled its former Zanzibar vice chairman, Mr Said Issa Mohamed, allegedly for breaching the party’s Constitution, regulations and guidelines by taking the party to court.

The decision was made by Chadema’s Pemba Zonal Executive Committee during an emergency meeting held in Chake Chake on Saturday, June 6, 2026, under the chairmanship of the zone’s leader, Mr Omar Nassor. In a statement issued on Sunday, June 7, 2026, Pemba Zonal Secretary, Mr Abdulla Hassan, said the committee met to deliberate on disciplinary issues involving, Mr Mohamed, and assess his conduct against the party’s governing rules.

The committee concluded that Mr Mohamed had violated Chadema’s Constitution, regulations, and guidelines, and resolved to expel him from the party with immediate effect. “After receiving and discussing the report presented before it, the committee was satisfied that Mr Said Issa Mohamed had violated the party’s Constitution, regulations and guidelines.

Consequently, the Pemba Zonal Executive Committee resolved to expel him from membership effective, Saturday, June 6, 2026,” Mr Hassan is quoted in a statement. He added that from that date, Mr Mohamed would no longer be recognised as a Chadema member, leader or representative at any level of the party.

The expulsion stems from Civil Case No. 8323 of 2025, filed by Mr Mohamed alongside Zanzibar representatives on Chadema’s Board of Trustees, Mr Ahmed Rashid Khamis, and the late Ms Maulida Anna Komu.

The applicants sued Chadema’s Board of Trustees and the party’s Secretary General, alleging an unequal distribution of party assets, resources and funding between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. According to court documents, they argued that Zanzibar members received a smaller share of financial and logistical support than their Mainland counterparts, undermining equality within the party.

However, on May 28, 2026, the High Court at the Dar es Salaam Sub-Registry struck out the case after finding procedural and legal defects in the statement of claim. In his ruling, Judge David Ngunyale said the applicants had failed to specify when the alleged violations began, making it impossible for the court to properly determine the cause of action.

The court held that civil pleadings must clearly set out material facts, including timelines of alleged wrongdoing, and therefore dismissed the suit without considering the substance of the claims. Before the case was struck out, Chadema had already appealed to the Court of Appeal, a move that enabled the party to resume political activities on April 15, 2026. The party said the legal dispute had significantly disrupted its operations, preventing it from conducting political activities for 309 days while the matter remained before the courts.

The Pemba meeting was attended by Chadema Mainland Vice Chairman, Mr John Heche, and Secretary General, Mr John Mnyika. Chadema said any statements, actions or activities undertaken by Mr Mohamed following his expulsion would be his personal responsibility and would not represent the party in any capacity.

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