FOEMER CCM Chairman and Fourth Phase President, Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, said he is aware of rumors and criticisms claiming that the CCM process to select the presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, was violated.

Addressing the rally today August 28, 2025 at Tanganyika Parkers, Dar es Salaam, during the party’s campaign launch for the upcoming general election, Kikwete stated:

“I was also criticized, as I mentioned at the National Congress. Those who said this either don’t understand the party’s procedures, or if they do, perhaps they have forgotten or are pretending not to know.”

According to him, multi-party system introduction  within CCM, a procedure where an incumbent president, if seeking a second term, is granted it and that was the case for Benjamin Mkapa, Kikwete, and President John Magufuli.

“Why is there noise today about Samia? Why didn’t we hear such criticism during Mkapa’s, my, or Magufuli’s time? What surprises me is that those who speak loudly now were present during Mkapa’s and my time, but today they want to impose their views on CCM and Tanzanians, which is baseless,” he said.

He emphasized that the party has set procedures which must continue to be respected.

Kikwete added that calls for a second term for Samia are a result of people recognizing her excellent performance over five years.

“As we recall, Samia was sworn in on March 19, taking over leadership under very difficult circumstances following the death of President Magufuli. It was the first time the country faced such a situation, and many doubted how she would manage the nation.”

“You heard the words yourself—‘this person standing here is a woman president.’ There was fear, but we must recognize that the presidency is an institution, not defined by gender, governed by law and regulations. She has proven her capability and readiness.

“She has shown without doubt that she can successfully handle the powers of the President and Commander-in-Chief,” he added.

Kikwete said Samia has guided the nation successfully, maintaining peace, stability, unity, and promoting development.

He noted that past presidents had time to prepare their teams, policies, and running mates, such as Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi. In contrast, Samia unexpectedly became President following the sudden death of President Magufuli while visiting Tanga.

Kikwete praised her ability to quickly stabilize the position, comparing her to a commando arriving in enemy territory, ready and precise in handling challenges.