Tanzania’s entertainment industry is taking a dramatic political turn, with a host of high-profile celebrities entering the race for various elective positions ahead of the October general elections.

The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), recently kicked off its nomination process, and the list of aspirants reads like a red carpet lineup.

Leading the charge is DJ Romy Jons, brother to music superstar Diamond Platnumz and Vice President of WCB Wasafi. Romy is eyeing the Mbagala parliamentary seat, injecting serious star power into the political arena.

Also in the running is Wasafi FM presenter and rapper Baba Levo, who is vying for the Kigoma Town seat. Baba Levo has already received a strong endorsement from Diamond Platnumz in a heartfelt online message.

“Najua ni kiasi gani unaipenda na unauchungu na Kigoma... nakumbuka kuna siku ulinambia kwa uchungu kuwa siku Mungu akikujalia kuwa mbunge, utapambana juu chini kuhakikisha Kigoma yetu inakua na maendeleo inayostahili,” wrote Diamond. “Nikuthibitishie kuwa una support yangu ya hali na mali.”

Radio personality Mwijaku (real name Burton Mwemba) is seeking the Mvomero seat, while rapper Shetta is eyeing a position in Mchikichini.

Another headline-grabbing name is Jesca Magufuli, daughter of the late President John Pombe Magufuli, who is hoping to represent Geita.

These celebrities are contesting for a range of positions—from local councillor roles to seats in parliament—and their candidacies have ignited online debate, with fans divided between enthusiasm and scepticism.

The wave of celebrity bids follows CCM’s national general meeting in May, where hundreds of well-known figures publicly endorsed President Samia Suluhu Hassan for a second term.

Read Also: Fred Matiang’i: I’m Ready to Lead Kenya Because Running Kenya is Not child's Play With Excuses

CCM, which has ruled Tanzania since independence, is expected to face a fractured opposition in the upcoming elections, with several opposition leaders, including Tundu Lissu, facing treason charges.

Meanwhile, Mwijaku, known for his controversial statements, recently made headlines after criticising Kenya over the detention and deportation of political figures including Martha Karua, warning Kenyans to steer clear of Tanzania’s internal affairs.