Tanzania’s Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa Exits Politics Ahead of Elections

In a surprising move, Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has announced he will not seek re-election in the upcoming parliamentary polls, effectively ending his tenure as head of government.

Majaliwa, 64, had previously planned to defend his Ruangwa constituency seat for a fourth term. However, during a televised address Wednesday, he reversed course, citing personal conviction and divine guidance as reasons for stepping aside.

“I have made this decision in good faith,” Majaliwa said, adding that it was time to “give others the opportunity to unite and build on the development foundation we have established.”

A senior member of Tanzania’s ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, Majaliwa has represented the coastal Ruangwa region since 2010. He pledged continued support for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s re-election bid and reaffirmed his commitment to the party.

Appointed prime minister under the late President John Magufuli, Majaliwa played a stabilizing role during the political transition following Magufuli’s death in 2021. A former teacher turned politician, he gained a reputation as a calm yet firm leader after serving in multiple ministerial roles.

His exit follows closely after Vice President Philip Mpango also stepped down from politics, signaling a major leadership shift within the CCM.

Political analysts suggest these departures offer President Suluhu Hassan – Tanzania’s first female leader – an opportunity to reshape her inner circle and consolidate power ahead of general elections later this year, where CCM is widely expected to prevail.