Dodoma. Ilala Member of Parliament, Mussa Azzan Zungu, has been elected Speaker of the National Assembly of the United Republic of Tanzania, following a decisive victory in an election held today in Dodoma.
Mr Zungu, a veteran legislator and long-serving public servant, garnered 378 votes out of 383 ballots cast, with three spoilt votes, securing an overwhelming mandate from his fellow parliamentarians to preside over the 13th Parliament.
Upon his election, the new Speaker pledged to lead the House with transparency, discipline, and a strong sense of accountability, assuring MPs and citizens alike that he would uphold the integrity of Parliament as one of the country’s key democratic pillars.
“The National Assembly must continue to be a symbol of unity, respect, and responsibility to the people we serve. I am committed to ensuring order, fairness, and accountability in all parliamentary business,” Mr Zungu said after being declared winner.
His election marks the beginning of a new parliamentary leadership era expected to place emphasis on enhanced government oversight, effective representation, and the strengthening of institutional credibility.
Other candidates in the race included Veronica Tyeah of the National Reconstruction Alliance (NRA), Anitha Mgaya of the National League for Democracy (NLD), Chrisant Nyakitita of the Democratic Party (DP), Ndonge Ndonge of the Alliance for Africa Farmers Party (AAFP), and Amin Yango of the Alliance for Democratic Change (ADC).
Of these, Mr Ndonge and Mr Yango each secured one vote, while the remaining contenders failed to attract any.
Political analysts have described Mr Zungu’s election as a sign of renewed parliamentary stability and cohesion, coming at a time when the legislature is expected to play a central role in steering key national reforms and ensuring that government programmes reflect citizens’ priorities.
With his vast experience and long parliamentary career, Mr Zungu now assumes one of the nation’s most influential positions, entrusted with guiding legislative debate, protecting the independence of Parliament, and fostering constructive engagement between the executive and the people’s representatives.
