‘Do not be like a fish’: President Samia tells new VP Ndejembi

Tanzania's newly appointed Vice President, Deogratius John Ndejembi, took the oath of office on Saturday, August 29, 2026. President Samia Suluhu Hassan emphasized that the role of Vice President is not akin to a kingdom, but a public trust, highlighting Ndejembi's youth, energy and experience in both the public and private sectors.

Samia urged Ndejembi to serve with humility, integrity, and patriotism, stressing the immense responsibility that comes with the position. She reminded him that the office is a public trust given by Tanzanians through the ruling party, the Chama Cha Mapinduzi, but ultimately through the people themselves, the Bunge la Wananchi wa Tanzania.

Samia also encouraged Ndejembi to continue learning and growing in his leadership, noting that there is no formal school specifically designed to train a Vice President. She underscored the importance of Ndejembi's previous experiences in government and the private sector in helping him carry out his new responsibilities. The President made it clear that Tanzanians expect Ndejembi to serve the country faithfully, putting national interests ahead of personal considerations.

She also reminded him of his duty to the people, stating that the office comes with the responsibility to serve the nation faithfully, putting national interests above personal interests. Samia highlighted the critical role Ndejembi would play in helping the government implement the promises contained in the CCM's 2025-2030 manifesto and Tanzania's new 25-year development vision.

She emphasized that unity, cooperation, peace, stability, and good leadership would be crucial in delivering the country's development agenda. Samia also celebrated Tanzania's constitutional and political systems, noting that the transition into the high office demonstrated the country's ability to manage major leadership changes peacefully.