Tanzania Vice President Nchimbi Steps Down from Office
Tanzania’s Vice President, Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi, has formally resigned from his position and announced his complete retirement from public service and active politics.
The decision takes effect on September 4, 2026, according to an official public notice issued on August 25 from the Office of the Vice President in Dodoma. Nchimbi confirmed that he has already submitted his resignation letter to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
In the notice, the outgoing vice president cited specific constitutional provisions under Article 50(2)(c) read together with Article 149(2) of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania as the legal basis for his departure. The move is intended to allow the president to appoint a successor without delay. Nchimbi framed the resignation as the fulfilment of an earlier personal commitment made to the head of state.
Reflecting on that pledge, he recalled a promise given on August 27, 2025. “On August 27, 2025, I promised Her Excellency President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan that I would assist her and our country to the best of my ability and with utter faithfulness,” he stated. He continued, “I also assured her that whenever she sees the need for another Vice President, I will vacate the position. I am fully satisfied, without any doubt, that Her Excellency the President desires change, and thus I have decided to fulfil my promise.”
Nchimbi expressed deep gratitude to President Hassan and the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, for the trust placed in him during his tenure. He also thanked the people of Tanzania for their support while serving in high office. In closing, he reassured citizens that he would continue to remain a patriotic member of the nation even after leaving formal politics.
The resignation marks a significant transition at the highest level of Tanzania’s government. With the effective date set for early next month, attention now turns to the process by which President Hassan will select and appoint a new vice president to fill the vacancy created by Nchimbi’s departure.
