In Tanzania, The Citizen newspaper is reporting the results of a controversial opinion poll.

The poll is based on a survey of nearly 2,000 people. It records how people would vote if there were a presidential election. The poll is unusual because it records a big decline in support for the long-dominant and ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.

The poll presents the following figures:
Willibrod Slaa – Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CDM) 42%
Ibrahim Lipumba – Civic United Front (CUF) 14%
Mizengo Pinda – Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) 12%.

Given President Kikwete (CCM) was elected with 62.8% of the vote last year, then, if anywhere near correct, the poll would point to a major shift in public opinion.

Obviously, the polling methodology has been denounced and the shift in support does sound exaggerated.