Tanzania’s Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has made a stunning announcement that he will not seek re-election in October’s parliamentary polls, effectively ending his nine-year tenure as the country’s second-highest leader.
The 64-year-old politician, who has represented Ruangwa constituency since 2010 and served as PM since 2015, cited divine guidance and a desire to “give others opportunity” in his abrupt reversal, just one week after confirming his candidacy.
Political Transition in Ruling CCM Party
Majaliwa’s unexpected withdrawal follows Vice-President Philip Mpango’s May retirement, creating space for President Samia Suluhu Hassan to reshape her leadership team ahead of elections. The moves signal potential power realignments within the long-ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, which has governed Tanzania since 1977. Analysts suggest President Samia may be consolidating control as she seeks her own second term, with Majaliwa pledging to support her campaign as a senior party official.
From Teacher to Power Broker, Kassim Majaliwa’s Ascension to Power
The former teacher-turned-politician rose through CCM ranks, serving as a junior minister under former President Jakaya Kikwete before becoming PM under late President John Magufuli. He earned praise for steering Tanzania through its 2021 political transition after Magufuli’s death, maintaining stability as Samia became the nation’s first female president. His quiet but firm leadership style made him a potential presidential contender, though he never openly challenged Samia.
The resignation comes as Tanzania prepares for October’s general elections, with CCM expected to maintain its decades-long hold on power. However, the political environment remains tense after the government banned main opposition party Chadema for rejecting an electoral code of ethics that lacked promised reforms. While Samia initially won international praise for rolling back Magufuli-era restrictions on media and dissent, her administration now faces criticism over arrests of opposition leaders, abductions of political activists, and crackdowns on free expression.
