Renthia Kaimbi
A high-level Swapo delegation led by former Namibian ambassador to China, Elia Kaiyamo and youth leader Klaivert Mwandingi attended Chama Cha Mapinduzi’s (CCM) final inland rally in Tanzania ahead of the 29 October elections.
The rally, held in support of CCM’s candidate, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, showcased strong youth participation and a commitment to peace.
It also brought together several liberation movements, including South Africa’s ANC, Mozambique’s FRELIMO, Zimbabwe’s ZANU-PF, and Angola’s MPLA.
Kaiyamo said the event demonstrated unity and inclusivity.
“It is true, the rally was overwhelmingly dominated by eager young men and women, which is the engine of any campaign,” he said.
“However, the true strength observed was how this was seamlessly integrated with all stakeholders, from party elders to community leaders, creating a unified front. This reflects the enduring legacy of the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, whose principles of unity and grassroots mobilisation continue to be the highlight for CCM and an example for all liberation movements.”
Kaiyamo said the message of peace was evident in the crowd’s discipline and optimism. “The President’s assurance, combined with the visible maturity of the supporters, reinforces that elections are a moment, but the nation is forever. It is a powerful lesson in upholding peace as a core cultural value during pivotal democratic exercises,” he said.
Speaking from Dar es Salaam, Mwandingi described the atmosphere as inspiring and energetic.
“What we witnessed here was not just a political rally; it was a testament to a party successfully passing the torch to the next generation. The sea of young, passionate faces at the CCM final rally is a powerful lesson for all sister parties. It confirms that when the youth are genuinely embraced and given a platform, they become the most formidable engine for any campaign and for national development,” said Mwandingi.
The rally’s focus on youth empowerment reflected CCM’s broader strategy. Days before the event, CCM Parents’ Wing secretary general Ally Hapi addressed a ten-day workshop for youth leaders from six allied liberation movements, including Swapo, at the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Leadership School in Kibaha.
Hapi said empowering young people with skills is vital for peace and economic growth.
“With the increasing advancements in science and technology, it is crucial to create an environment that enables the youth, who make up a large portion of our populations, to be well-equipped with education and knowledge about modern technology,” he said.
He added that developing self-reliant and capable young leaders helps prevent leadership gaps and strengthens both ruling parties and national stability.
President Hassan used the rally to emphasise peace during the elections.
“I want to tell you that on October 29, go and vote. The only marches you will see are of people going to cast their votes. There will be no other demonstrations, no insecurity; this is the Commander-in-Chief speaking,” she said.
President Hassan also outlined her plans for the next term, including completing infrastructure projects in Dar es Salaam, implementing universal health insurance, and ensuring a stable 24-hour electricity supply.
