Tanzania’s Prime Minister Steps Down Prior to Elections
Kassim Majaliwa, the Prime Minister of Tanzania, has announced that he will not seek re-election in the upcoming parliamentary elections set for October, effectively closing the door on his chances for reappointment.
At 64 years of age, Majaliwa had previously expressed a desire to pursue a fourth term. However, in an unforeseen announcement made on Wednesday, he revealed that his decision was guided by spiritual insight and was made “in good faith.”
“It is time to allow others to build on what we have initiated,” he stated, without providing further details regarding his withdrawal.
Majaliwa has held the position of prime minister since 2015 and was viewed as a potential successor to the late President John Magufuli. He continued in this capacity under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is currently seeking re-election with the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.
His resignation follows Vice-President Philip Mpango’s earlier declaration of retirement in May. This situation has led to speculation that President Samia is solidifying her power within CCM as she prepares her strategy for a possible second term.
Political analysts suggest that Majaliwa’s exit may be part of a plan to ensure adequate regional and religious representation within the government. A significant portion of Tanzania’s population identifies as Christian, while both Samia and Majaliwa belong to the Muslim faith.
Having previously worked as a teacher and junior minister under former President Jakaya Kikwete, Majaliwa played an essential role in ensuring a seamless political transition after Magufuli’s death in 2021. He will remain an influential member of CCM and provide support for Samia’s re-election campaign.
Meanwhile, tensions between government authorities and opposition groups continue to rise. The main opposition party, Chadema, has been barred from participating in the elections due to its failure to endorse an ethics code and its calls for electoral reforms. Its leader, Tundu Lissu, is currently facing treason charges.
On Thursday, government representatives denied allegations concerning a conspiracy to poison Lissu during his imprisonment, dismissing such claims as unfounded and warning against their propagation.
Human rights organizations have accused President Samia of increasing repression despite her initial efforts to lift restrictions imposed by Magufuli’s administration. Recently arrested are several senior leaders from Chadema; additionally, reports indicate that some opposition members have been abducted or killed over recent years.
General elections are expected later this year in Tanzania; however, predictions suggest that CCM will retain its grip on power—a position it has held since 1977.
