SEVERAL senior cadres at the headquarters of the leading opposition party Chadema have decamped from the political organisation.

Led by Benson Kigaila, former Mainland deputy secretary general, the group issued a joint statement before journalists in Dar es Salaam yesterday to announce their resignations, citing “authoritarian leadership and growing disarray within the party.”

The statement said that their decision to step down was intended to reflect and explore new avenues through which they can retain the ability to serve the Tanzanian people.

They levelled strong criticism against Chadema’s current leadership, asserting that it was violating the party’s constitution and fostering a culture of discrimination and intolerance toward internal dissent.

“The party has abandoned internal democracy,” the lead objector said, underlining that members who raise questions or express differing views are being expelled without due process.

Since party chairman Tundu Lissu was arrested and placed in remand prison, no central committee meeting has been convened, with major party decisions now being made through public pronouncements rather than formal consultation.

 “This is not how a democratic institution should function,” he stressed, affirming that the group has not yet aligned with another political party but ruled out joining the ruling party, CCM.

 “We are not quitting politics. We are simply taking time to reflect. CCM is not an option. We will soon announce our next political move,” he elaborated.

Salum Mwalimu, former deputy secretary general for Zanzibar, echoed those concerns, saying the party leadership had become resistant to internal feedback.

“Whenever someone attempts to offer constructive criticism, the response is always the same: ‘No reforms, no election.’ That is not leadership—it is a justification for stagnation,” the veteran campaigner intoned.

Catherine Ruge, former head of Chadema’s women’s wing (Bawacha), lashed at the top leadership for “eroding party unity,” alleging that “the leadership has taken a sharp knife and severed the strong thread that once held us together.”

She made it clear that her departure from Chadema does not mark the end of her political trajectory, wishing to retain the ability to hold the government accountable and “advocating for a truly independent electoral system.”

Brenda Rupia, the party director of communications and publicity, extended gratitude and best wishes to them on behalf of the party when asked to comment on the turn of events.

“We wish all the former leaders and members who announced their resignation today the very best. We recognize and appreciate their contributions during their time with us,” she said.

The party remains committed to its core principles and to serving its remaining members while reaffirming its dedication to national development, she stated.

Chadema was firm on upholding its values and serving the broad membership by advancing efforts to build the nation.

“The door remains open for dialogue and cooperation with anyone who has the best interests of our country at heart,” she added.