WITH increasing demands for Chadema national chairman Freeman Mbowe to contest for the position again, the veteran party leader has set Saturday this week to announce his decision.

Addressing a gathering of supporters led by William Mungai, the party regional chairman for Iringa at his home north of the city of Dar es Salaam, he asked for 48 hours to reflect on the matter.

“I will then address the public during a meeting with editors,” he stated, projecting the meeting for Saturday, where it will then be made clear whether he will seek re-election for the chairmanship in the upcoming party leadership polls set for next month.

His meeting with editors would be held after 48 hours of closely monitoring current trends within the party, he said, stressing that his decision would be guided by his commitment to strengthening the party rather than engaging in any internal conflicts that could undermine its future.

"I do not want to engage in any battles that would damage the party; instead, I aim to build it," he said, acknowledging that some critics might view his actions as part of just personal interest.

He cited intense criticism he has faced on social media, saying attacks have been relentless and at times discouraging, affirming that what troubles him is the impact these challenges impinge on himself and close associates.

He ventured to admit that his family has noticed an emotional toll these public battles have taken on him, urging him to step aside, telling him with sympathy and resolve, that ‘enough is enough.’

Some in his family want him to step aside from politics, he said, seeking to stand above the personal challenges and reassuring his supporters that both his family and the party support base remain resilient. 

“Regardless of what happens, my family and the party are strong and will keep moving forward,” he declared, as the regional leaders urged him to seek re-election. 

The Iringa chieftain set out four reasons for the party chairman to run for another term, discounting the “noise on social media,” and insisting that regional leaders are united in support for the chairman.

He said that removing Mbowe from leadership now would be disastrous, as his leadership has been instrumental in uniting the party. To remove him at this stage would be nothing short of madness, he declared.

He insisted that Mbowe has become the role model both for Chadema members and political leaders outside the party. “His true role model status has been forged through self-sacrifice, much like a sacrificial lamb," he ventured to declare.

 “His financial commitment to the party speaks volumes. He has built an institution that serves as a refuge for supporters across different political platforms,” he further asserted.

“Chadema is not only a sanctuary for its members but also an inspiration to young people passionate about politics. “We must continue to build this institution, which has become a source of hope and inspiration for the youth,” he emphasised.

Mbowe’s leadership has been crucial in strengthening democracy in the country, thus the regional leaders seek that he stands for another term, until he feels it is time to step down. 

Insisting that the chairman\s leadership is invaluable, he said he is needed to still preside over party affairs. He is a visionary leader whose creative approach has inspired many, he added.