Tanzania’s Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi has resigned, offering to vacate his office on September 4. The announcement comes less than a year after he assumed the position and follows what analysts describe as a power struggle with President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The presidency confirmed that constitutional procedures will be initiated to appoint a new deputy. In a statement, Nchimbi expressed his conviction that President Hassan desires a different deputy and pledged to remain a committed citizen of Tanzania.
Nchimbi's departure is noteworthy in a country generally recognized for its political stability under the long-standing rule of the Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. Some observers suggest that disagreements between Nchimbi and President Hassan may have emerged over governance issues and the administration's response to post-election protests.
"The two were not on good terms," said Tito Magoti, a rights attorney and independent analyst based in Dar es Salaam. He noted that the country experienced a crackdown on protests following the October 29 election.
An inquiry into the election-related violence revealed that 518 people died, a figure that shocked many domestically and internationally. The military was deployed in major cities to suppress riots, leading to instances of gunfire in areas typically known for their peace. For several days, internet access was restricted, a measure for which President Hassan later apologized and pledged would not recur.
Mohamed Chande Othman, who led the commission investigating the violence, indicated in April that the actual death toll might be higher, as some families reportedly buried their deceased without official notification. The commission recommended an investigation into the use of firearms, following witness accounts of individuals being shot while inside their homes.
President Hassan, who has led the nation since 2021, faced criticism for presiding over an election where her main rivals were barred from competing. Her primary challenger, Tundu Lissu, is currently facing treason charges that he asserts are politically motivated.
The CCM has been the dominant political force in Tanzania since the nation gained independence in 1961, with its influence extending to the security apparatus. President Hassan ascended to the presidency following the unexpected death of her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli, during his second term. This transition had maintained Tanzania's image as a region of political stability, contributing to the CCM's substantial support base, particularly in rural areas.