Tanzania’s vice president resigns in test to the country’s democracy

President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has announced the resignation of her vice president, Emmanuel Nchimbi, after less than a year in office. Analysts suggest that the decision was the result of a power struggle between Nchimbi and the first female leader of the country. On September 4th, Nchimbi tendered his resignation, stating that he was "fully convinced" that Hassan desired a new deputy.

The presidency acknowledged that constitutional measures would be taken to select a new deputy. This resignation is particularly significant in a nation known for its relative stability under the one-party rule of the Chama cha Mapinduzi party. Some analysts believe that Nchimbi and Hassan had disagreements over governance and the government's harsh response to street protests following the October 29th election.

The post-election violence resulted in at least 518 deaths, sparking international shock and prompting the military's deployment to maintain order. Internet access was also temporarily suspended, an action later regretted by President Hassan. The commission investigating the election-related violence, led by Mohamed Chande Othman, has recommended an investigation into the use of firearms, as some witnesses reported their loved ones being shot while inside their homes.