Unopposed Babati Rural MP wins unanimous support amid calls for integrity and collaboration in the House
By Peter Nyanje, Dodoma
Babati Rural MP Daniel Sillo has been elected Deputy Speaker of the 13th Parliament, securing all 371 votes, equivalelent to 100 percentage votes cast by Members of Parliament during the session held today November 13, 2025 in Dodoma.
Sillo’s unanimous victory marks a rare moment of unity in the National Assembly, signalling broad political consensus as Tanzania’s new leadership team takes shape following the appointment of Dr Mwigulu Nchemba as Prime Minister.
The election, presided over by Speaker Mussa Zungu, came shortly after President Samia Suluhu Hassan nominated Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba for the Prime Minister post, a decision overwhelmingly endorsed by the House. Sillo’s unopposed candidacy reflected strong confidence from both the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and the opposition benches.
A seasoned legislator and advocate of rural transformation
Born and raised in Manyara Region, Daniel Sillo has been serving as Member of Parliament for Babati Rural since 2020. Known for his calm demeanour and practical approach to governance, Sillo has built a reputation for championing rural development, agricultural transformation, and infrastructure investment in underserved communities.
Before entering Parliament, Sillo worked in local government administration and development programmes, where he gained extensive experience in public service management. His elevation to Deputy Speaker is widely seen as a reward for loyalty, competence, and integrity within the CCM ranks.
Political analysts say Sillo’s election also reflects President Samia’s ongoing efforts to promote young, capable leaders who embody her administration’s reformist and results-driven agenda.
Responsibilities ahead
As Deputy Speaker, Sillo will serve as the principal assistant to Speaker Zungu, presiding over parliamentary sessions in his absence and helping to maintain order and discipline in the House. He will also play a crucial role in strengthening parliamentary oversight, transparency, and coordination with government ministries.
In his acceptance speech, Sillo thanked MPs for their trust and pledged to serve impartially and uphold parliamentary values.
“I am deeply humbled by this honour,” he said. “Our Parliament must remain a place of constructive debate, where we serve the people of Tanzania with dignity, honesty, and unity.”
Political significance
Sillo’s unanimous election comes at a critical moment for the 13th Parliament, which is expected to focus on implementing President Samia’s Vision 2050 agenda, improving economic productivity, and deepening governance reforms.
Observers note that his appointment, alongside that of Prime Minister Nchemba, represents a balance between experience and new energy in Tanzania’s top leadership ranks.
“The overwhelming support for both leaders demonstrates a rare consensus in Parliament,” said a political analyst based in Dodoma. “It signals a period of stability and cooperation that could accelerate the government’s reform programmes.” As the Parliament begins its new session, expectations are high that the Nchemba–Sillo leadership team will help streamline legislative work, strengthen accountability, and ensure government policies translate into tangible benefits for citizens.
