DODOMA, Tanzania — Tanzania’s Vice President, Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi, has resigned from office and announced his retirement from public service and active politics, with his departure taking effect on September 4, 2026.
Nchimbi announced his decision in a public notice dated August 25, 2026, saying he had formally submitted his resignation to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The Vice President cited Article 50(2)(c) read together with Article 149(2) of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania as the legal basis for his resignation.
His departure will allow President Hassan to appoint a new Vice President.
Nchimbi says he is fulfilling a promise to Samia
In his statement, Nchimbi said his decision was linked to a commitment he made to President Hassan shortly after taking office.
He recalled promising the President on August 27, 2025, that he would serve the country faithfully and step aside if she determined that a change in the Vice Presidency was necessary.
Nchimbi said he was satisfied that President Hassan now desired a change and that his resignation was therefore consistent with the commitment he had made.
He described the decision as one he was taking voluntarily after concluding that the time had come for a transition.
Retirement from politics
Nchimbi’s announcement goes beyond his resignation as Vice President.
He said he will retire entirely from public service and active politics, marking a departure from a political career that has included senior government and ruling-party responsibilities.
The decision will see him leave the country’s second-highest constitutional office less than two years after assuming the Vice Presidency.
His resignation also creates an opening for President Hassan to select a new deputy as Tanzania prepares for the next phase of her administration.
Gratitude to President Hassan and CCM
Nchimbi expressed gratitude to President Hassan for the confidence she placed in him and thanked the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) for giving him the opportunity to serve.
He also thanked Tanzanians for their support during his time in public office.
Despite leaving active politics, Nchimbi said he would remain a patriotic citizen and continue to support the country in his capacity as a private citizen.
His statement did not indicate any dispute with President Hassan or provide details of the factors that prompted the timing of his resignation beyond his reference to the President’s desire for change.
President to appoint new Vice President
Nchimbi’s resignation means President Hassan will have to initiate the constitutional process for appointing his successor.
The Vice President is a key component of Tanzania’s executive structure, serving alongside the President and playing an important role in the administration of government affairs.
Nchimbi’s departure therefore represents a significant change in the country’s political leadership.
The announcement is also likely to generate interest within CCM over who will take up the position and what considerations will shape the President’s choice.
Constitutional basis for the resignation
Nchimbi specifically cited Article 50(2)(c) and Article 149(2) of Tanzania’s Constitution in announcing his decision.
His reference to the constitutional provisions signals that the resignation is being undertaken through the established legal framework governing the office.
The move will consequently trigger the process for filling the vacant Vice Presidential position.
Nchimbi leaves office on September 4
Nchimbi’s resignation will become effective on September 4, 2026, giving President Hassan time to begin arrangements for the appointment of a new Vice President.
In his farewell message, Nchimbi thanked the President, CCM and Tanzanians for the opportunity to serve and reaffirmed his commitment to the country.
He is expected to formally leave active public life once the resignation takes effect.
