Tanzania’s Vice President, Emmanuel Nchimbi, has announced his resignation, expressing his belief that President Samia Suluhu Hassan seeks a shift in the country’s second-highest office.
On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Nchimbi formally communicated his decision to President Hassan, stating his intention to retire from both politics and public service. He clarified that his resignation aligns with constitutional provisions regarding vice-presidential vacancies.
Nchimbi emphasized that his choice reflects a commitment made to President Hassan on August 27, 2025, where he pledged to support her and the nation with unwavering dedication. He reiterated his promise to step down whenever the president deemed it necessary to appoint a new vice president.
In elaborating on his decision, Nchimbi affirmed his conviction that President Hassan desires a change, prompting him to honor his prior commitment. “On August 27, 2025, I assured Her Excellency President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan that I would serve our country to the best of my abilities and with complete loyalty,” he stated in his announcement. “I also affirmed that I would vacate the position whenever she identified the need for a new Vice President. I am fully confident that Her Excellency the President seeks change, and thus I have chosen to fulfill my promise.”
Nchimbi also indicated that he would retire from active politics, concluding his political career. His resignation opens the door for President Hassan to appoint a successor in line with constitutional guidelines.
In his farewell, Nchimbi expressed gratitude to President Hassan and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) for their trust during his tenure. He also extended his appreciation to the Tanzanian people for their support throughout his public service journey. “I specifically thank Her Excellency the President and Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) for their confidence in me,” he remarked. “I am deeply grateful to all Tanzanians for the tremendous cooperation offered during my time in public service. I assure you that I will continue to be a responsible citizen of Tanzania.”
Nchimbi’s resignation signifies a pivotal transition in Tanzania’s leadership, with President Hassan now poised to select his successor. He affirmed that his decision was voluntary and directly tied to his commitment to step aside whenever the president required a different occupant for the office.
