Nchimbi Resignation: Tanzania VP Exit 2026

Emmanuel Nchimbi, Tanzania’s vice-president, has submitted his resignation letter while serving less than a year in office amid rumors of increasing political rifts with President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Emmanuel Nchimbi, who is 54 years old, said in his resignation letter that he has decided to honor the wishes of the president. The news of Nchimbi quitting his job has been confirmed by sources from the vice president’s office and the presidency.

He further added that he will retire from politics at the end of next week, thereby becoming the first-ever Tanzanian vice-president to resign from his post.

This news comes after the disputed presidential elections in Tanzania, which resulted in unrest and accusations of security forces attacking the protesters.

What is the Reason Behind Tanzanian VP’s Resignation?

According to Nchimbi, his resignation was informed by his belief that the president required a change in the vice-presidential office.

In his resignation letter, he cited his previous pledge to the president that he would resign if she needed another vice-president.

“I have become convinced without any doubt that the president requires changes and I have thus resolved to fulfill my pledge,” Nchimbi wrote.

He thanked Samia and the ruling political party of Tanzania – Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) for their confidence in him and thanked Tanzanians for their support during his tenure in public office.

Nchimbi stated that his resignation was in line with the constitution of the country and that he would continue to be a “good citizen of Tanzania”.

The president and the vice-president have not made any comment on the reported change in their relationship.

Nchimbi Resigns after Making Controversial Comments about Constitution

These comments came after remarks made by Nchimbi that gained popularity in Tanzania.

One month ago, he encouraged Tanzanians to “fight for a new constitution,” saying that Tanzania had an option to obtain constitutional reforms before 2030.

He also mentioned that constitutional reforms would solve issues such as injustices, human rights violations, good governance, and democratization.

This comment was delivered during a time when political issues were being faced by the country, especially following the controversial 2025 elections.

However, these comments cannot be considered the reason for Nchimbi’s resignation but have only increased speculations about his relations with President Samia.

Controversial Elections of Tanzania Were Followed by Violent Protests

Nchimbi became vice-president, having been Samia’s running mate in the October 2025 presidential elections of Tanzania.

They were sworn into office in November following their winning by about 98 percent of the votes.

However, the elections were very controversial, leading to protests following the elections.

At least 500 people have been killed, according to an official inquiry as reported by the BBC. Security forces were accused by opposition factions and human rights activists of using excessive force against anti-government demonstrators.

This unrest has had repercussions on Tanzania‘s political landscape and raised awareness regarding issues related to democratic reform, human rights, and Tanzania’s constitution.

Who Is Emmanuel Nchimbi?

Emmanuel Nchimbi is a long-time member of the CCM party, which leads in Tanzania and has occupied various high-profile roles in politics and diplomacy.

Before his vice-presidential role, he was the Secretary General of the CCM party as well as occupying various government ministries such as that of Information and Home Affairs.

He has also been Tanzania’s ambassador to Brazil and afterwards to Egypt.

The nomination of Samia for vice president therefore put him at the forefront of the Tanzanian government in 2025.

And What Comes after the Resignation of Nchimbi?

At this time, Nchimbi is anticipated to exit from politics in a few weeks’ time, thus marking the short stint of his vice-presidency.

With this, the question that arises is how the President will go about appointing his successor and what other changes will follow in the Tanzanian political leadership.

This might draw more attention to the views of the government regarding constitutional reforms, especially since Nchimbi made his point that Tanzania needs a new constitution before 2030.

However, at this juncture, the exact reason behind his resignation is not yet known, except for the fact that Nchimbi said that he is doing so to fulfill his promise.