In a bold statement made during a press conference to announce the resolutions of the Tanzania Centre for Democracy regarding the upcoming 2024 local government elections, Professor Ibrahim Lipumba, the current chairman of the organization, emphatically declared that Tanzanians no longer require a three-year education process for the drafting of a new constitution. This announcement comes just days after the government’s announcement of a lengthy educational period before considering a new constitution.

Professor Lipumba, who also leads the Civic United Front political party, articulated his stance based on the belief that Tanzanians possess a deep and sufficient understanding of the constitution they desire. He pointed to the comprehensive draft constitution presented by the Warioba Commission, asserting that it clearly reflects the citizens’ well-informed preferences.

Notably, this statement from Professor Lipumba follows concerns that the likelihood of adopting a new constitution before the 2025 general elections is increasingly slim. Therefore, he advocates for prioritizing minor constitutional amendments in preparation for the crucial 2025 polls to ensure free and fair elections. This approach aims to address immediate electoral concerns before embarking on substantial constitutional reforms.

Professor Lipumba’s perspective underscores the urgency of enhancing the electoral landscape in Tanzania, emphasizing the need for an efficient and strategic approach to constitutional revisions. His statement not only reflects the sentiment of a significant portion of the Tanzanian population but also signals a call for timely and meaningful reforms in the run-up to the pivotal 2025 general elections.