Tanzania’s VP expelled from ruling party for indiscipline and his successor named

Emmanuel Nchimbi, Tanzania's Vice President, has been expelled from the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party for disciplinary reasons. The 54-year-old made controversial comments in recent weeks, urging Tanzanians to fight for a new constitution, which may lead to conflict with President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Nchimbi was Samia's running mate in the disputed presidential election held in October, which resulted in thousands of fatalities during post-poll unrest.

The decision to expel Nchimbi and appoint a successor was made during an extraordinary meeting of the CCM, chaired by President Samia. His resignation becomes effective at the end of next week. Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi, 43, has been nominated as Nchimbi's replacement, and his name will now be presented to parliament for approval.

The party did not disclose the specifics of the disciplinary allegations against Nchimbi. Nchimbi is the first vice-president in Tanzania's history to step down from his position. In his resignation letter, he stated that he had become convinced that the president wants changes, and he plans to retire from public life.

Nchimbi and President Samia were sworn in last November after winning 98% of the vote in the election, which was boycotted by the main opposition party, Chadema. The opposition called for electoral reforms before participating in the polls. Violent protests following the voting led to the deaths of at least 500 people, according to an official inquiry. Both opposition parties and human rights groups accused the security forces of using excessive force to suppress anti-government protesters.