PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has delivered a firm message to CCM members, calling for integrity, diligence and unity in selecting candidates for the parliamentary and ward councillor polls.

Launching the party’s 2025–2030 election manifesto in the national capital yesterday, the CCM national chairperson stressed that vetting committees must ensure only competent and committed individuals are cleared to contest under the party’s ticket.

“The vetting committees must act justly. Those who are qualified should be endorsed, and those who are not must be told so clearly and honestly. There should be no favouritism or hesitation,” she said, cautioning against bias and complacency.

The president’s stance comes as CCM gears up for a competitive election cycle within its ranks and mixed public expectations, thus the president’s emphasis that “we need candidates who will deliver on our manifesto and serve the people diligently.”

Party insiders say her remarks are seen as a signal to end internal lobbying and protect the party from reputational risks tied with unpopular candidates who for reasons of loyalty are imposed by higher organs of the party.

While acknowledging the inevitable internal competition during primaries, she cautioned against post-selection divisions and factionalism, urging party members to rally behind the chosen candidates once the internal processes are concluded.

“We are heading into a challenging election time when unity and solidarity within the party are critical. Once internal competitions are over, we must stand together as one party and enter the elections united,” she declared.

Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, the secretary general, and Prof Kitila Mkumbo, the Planning minister and manifesto committee chairman, were directed to compile region-specific manifesto booklets.

The documents will highlight regional development progress under the current manifesto and outline targets under the new one, in a move to localise the party’s vision and promote accountability, she said.

“Each region should have a tailored version of the manifesto that reflects what was planned, what has been achieved, and what remains to be done. This will make implementation easier and more measurable,” she stated.

Realising ambitious goals set out in the new manifesto will require national stability, a strong work ethic and collaboration with both local and international private sector partners, she said.

“Let’s work with the private sector to achieve our goals. The government cannot do it alone,” she said, urging party members at all levels to become vocal ambassadors of the manifesto, informing and convincing the public of CCM’s vision and track record.

“Carry this manifesto with you, speak about it and convince Tanzanians to maintain trust in CCM,” she said. The 2025-30 Manifesto is designed to build a strong, inclusive and inwardly driven economy, with nine strategic priorities to tackle national challenges with practical and people-centred solutions.

The launch of the new manifesto marks the formal beginning of the party’s 2025 campaign trail, setting the tone for a high-stakes political season that will shape Tanzania’s current development trajectory, analysts noted.