Getrude Mongella, the MP for Ukerewe, returning from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after she was elected the President of Africa Parliament

When Getrude Mongella, the MP for Ukerewe, returned from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after she was elected the President of Africa Parliament, she was greeted with pomp, fanfare and dance.

Makongo suburb on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, where she resides, was animated as people from near and far went to welcome and congratulate her.The tumult moved to Ukerewe where the constituents held a reception in her honour.

Later on, another function was held at the CCM sub, office in Dar es Salaam to applaud Mongella on her achievement, election as the President of the African Parliament.

This inspired Ukerewe residents living in Dar es Salaam to organize their own function at the Diamond Jubilee Hall for their MP.Possibly, other Tanzanians too, also wished to convey their heartfelt congratulations to Mongella, even as they could not reach her to express their joy.

There was a very encouraging remark by CCM Publicity Secretary, Jackson Msome, when welcoming Mama Mongella as she is affectionately referred to. Msome said CCM does not close its door on women who wish to vie for leadership.

Of course his statement contradicts one which was given by the CCM Vice Chairman, John Malecela, sometime last year, saying women could contest for any position, except that of the presidency.

The warm welcome that Mongella received and the joy that accompanied her itinerary is a great consolation to the cause of women. It gives hope and trust of a dawning new era.

Soon what seemed a distant dream a couple of years ago, will turn into reality. Soon and very soon, Tanzania will have a different political scene if women come out and demand it.

This, even if it is to happen, is not going to be an easy task. Women have a very difficult hurdle to overcome and this is obstruction by a very powerful clique of those who believe they, and not any other person, should be the ones to lead.

In short, there is a struggle for power among men themselves, particularly in political parties. Many would not give their concessions, as this would mean losing a monthly salary and forfeiting other fringe benefits dished out from party subsidies.

Yet in some parties, money may not be a problem but prestige.But we must also accept the fact that society is now accepting women in leadership. They would like to see a change, a change for the better.

People, who cheered Mongella, did it for a purpose. They are hoping for something more to come out of it. They are not merely excited by her new position as president of the Africa Parliament that sits very far from their capital city - Dar es Salaam.

Mongella’s victory should be brought home. And it would be wise if women rose to this occasion in support of those who would come out to vie for leadership.

We have cheered and given others our votes. It is now our turn to be voted in and be cheered.