Details of Raila’s meeting with Tanzanian opposition leaders

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Saturday met opposition leaders from neighbouring Tanzania.

In the meeting held in Nairobi, the leaders discussed among other issues strengthening democracy in the continent.

According to Raila, they also discussed how parties, both in government and opposition can contribute effectively to national development.

“I held discussions with visiting Tanzanian opposition leaders who paid me a courtesy call," he said.

"We exchanged views on strengthening democracy on the continent, including effective contribution to national development by parties both in and outside government."

The former PM noted that he encouraged the Tanzanian opposition led by Tundu Lissu to prioritise dialogue with the current administration for the good of the people of Tanzania.

Raila added that he looks forward to peaceful and transparent elections in the upcoming elections in Tanzania.

“I encouraged them to prioritize dialogue and constructive engagement with their government in the interest of the nation and the preservation of Tanzanian democracy. I look forward to a peaceful and transparent election in the upcoming Tanzanian polls.”

The Opposition leaders stated that they were honoured to be welcomed by Raila Odinga at his office in Nairobi

"We were honoured to be welcomed by Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga at his office in Nairobi for a discussion on the political situation in our country and the democratic struggle led by our party. We had the opportunity to brief RAO on our 'No Reform No Election' stance and to gain his experience and advice," the said.

Lissu was elected chairman of the main opposition party Chadema in January 2025, ousting long-running leader Freeman Mbowe in an intense race.

He was the party’s presidential candidate in the 2020 election, where he came in second against former late President John Pombe Magufuli was also an incumbent.

In the 2025 elections, opposition party candidates will battle it out with incumbent Samia Suluhu who took over following the death of Magufuli.

Suluhu was Magufuli’s deputy at the time of his death.

The elections will be held in October 2025.

Tanzania has been ruled by the same party since independence, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).