ZANZIBAR: CHAMA Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has reshuffled its National Executive Committee (NEC) Secretariat, appointing new officials to key positions as Tanzania’s ruling party moves to strengthen its internal organisation and improve coordination of its programmes.
The changes, approved by the party’s Central Committee during a meeting in Zanzibar on Wednesday, affect several senior positions, including the two deputy secretary general roles and departments responsible for organisation and economic affairs.
The meeting was chaired by CCM National Chairperson and President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Among the changes, Agrey Mwanri has been appointed CCM Deputy Secretary General for Mainland Tanzania, replacing John Mongella, while Abdi Mahmud Abdi becomes Deputy Secretary General for Zanzibar.
Announcing the changes, CCM Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training Kenani Kihongosi said the appointments were part of efforts to strengthen the party’s Secretariat and improve its ability to implement programmes and carry out its responsibilities.
“The appointments are aimed at strengthening the Secretariat and enhancing efficiency in implementing CCM programmes and discharging its responsibilities,” Mr Kihongosi told journalists after the meeting.
The reshuffle also affects key administrative departments, with Paul Chacha appointed to head the Organisation Department, replacing Issa Ussi Gavu.
Jamal Kassim has been appointed to lead the Economic Affairs Department, taking over from Raila Burhan Ngonzi.
CCM’s Secretariat plays a central role in coordinating party activities, implementing decisions made by its leadership organs and managing communication between the party’s national structures and grassroots network.
Because of the party’s dominant role in Tanzania’s political system, changes within its senior leadership structure are closely watched for indications of shifting priorities in organisation, policy messaging and mobilisation.
However, CCM did not provide specific details on whether the changes were linked to any particular policy shift or political strategy, saying only that they were intended to improve efficiency and strengthen the party’s operations.
Several senior officials retained their positions, including CCM Secretary General Dr Asha-Rose Migiro, NEC Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training Kenani Kihongosi, and NEC Secretary for Political Affairs and International Relations Rabia Hamid.
The reshuffle comes as CCM continues to adjust its internal structures while maintaining continuity among some members of its senior leadership team.