Private Observer

 M’membe Accuses UPND of Undermining Socialist Party Structures

Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe has accused the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) of attempting to emulate Tanzania’s political environment, where, he claims, elections are conducted with opposition parties already weakened.

Dr. M’membe alleged that the ruling party is deliberately working to undermine the Socialist Party’s structures as part of a broader strategy to weaken political competition ahead of future elections.

Speaking during a media briefing, Dr. M’membe dismissed speculation that the recent dismissal of the party’s Mobilization Secretary, Kelvin Kaunda, stemmed from internal leadership wrangles. Instead, he claimed that Kaunda had been collaborating with UPND officials to destabilize the Socialist Party from within.

“The decision to remove Mr. Kaunda was made to safeguard the unity and integrity of our organization. We are facing coordinated efforts from external forces seeking to weaken our movement,” Dr. M’membe said.

He reiterated that the Socialist Party remains committed to advancing its political agenda despite what he described as deliberate attempts to disrupt its operations.

However, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has dismissed the allegations, saying the UPND has no reason or intention to interfere in the affairs of the Socialist Party.

“The Socialist Party is still a young political formation trying to establish itself on the national scene. There is nothing the UPND can or would do to destabilize it,” Mr. Mweetwa stated.

The exchange adds to the growing tension between the ruling party and the Socialist Party, which has positioned itself as one of the main opposition movements ahead of the next general elections.