Tanzania’s vice president resigns after less than a year in office

KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — Tanzania's vice president, Emmanuel Nchimbi, is resigning after less than a year in office, amid what analysts describe as a power struggle with the country's first female leader, President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Nchimbi tendered his resignation on September 4, stating he was "fully convinced" that Hassan desired a new deputy. He assured Tanzanians he would remain a good citizen of the country.

The resignation is notable in a nation known for its relative stability under the one-party rule of CCM, the Chama cha Mapinduzi party. Nchimbi's departure comes after a post-election inquiry revealed 518 deaths during violent protests that followed the October 29 election. The military and police were deployed to quell the riots, leading to a nationwide internet shutdown for several days.

Hassan, who has ruled since 2021, faced criticism for her victory in the election, which saw her running virtually unopposed as her main opponents were disqualified. Tundu Lissu, her former rival, is currently imprisoned on treason charges he claims are politically motivated. CCM, which has governed Tanzania since its independence from Britain in 1961, maintains a strong grip on the state and security apparatus, contributing to the party's continued support, particularly among rural voters.