Politics

Tanzania Prime Minister Majaliwa Will Not Seek Reelection

Published JUL 4 2025

Story

Above: Tanzania's Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa, addressed the U.N. General Assembly's "Summit of the Future" on Sept. 22, 2024. Image credit: Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images

The Facts

Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa announced on Wednesday that he will not seek reelection in October's parliamentary elections, after nearly a decade in office.
Africanews
BBC News
Majaliwa, a former teacher, cited divine guidance for his decision, stating "it is time to give others the opportunity to unite and build on the development foundation we've established." Majaliwa has represented the coastal Ruangwa region since 2010.
BBC News
Tuko.co.ke
The Citizen
The Prime Minister's withdrawal amid the resignation of Vice-President Mpango in May suggests a coordinated leadership transition within the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party, with President Samia consolidating control ahead of the 2025 elections.
Omega TV UK
allAfrica
Potential successors include Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko, Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba, and Lukuvi, Bashungwa, and lawmaker January Makamba, while Majaliwa remains a senior CCM (Chama Cha Mapinduzi) party official, supporting President Hassan's re-election bid.
Daily
The Citizen
Tanzania's opposition party, Chadema, has been banned from participating in elections after they refused to sign a code of ethics. Opposition politicians have been arrested and the leader, Tundu Lissu, faces treason charges.
Daily
BBC News
Majaliwa is known for ensuring political stability and overseeing infrastructure projects like the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project and Standard Gauge Railway but has faced criticism for allegedly failing to address human rights abuses and corruption.
Tanzania Digest
Africa.com

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

This represents a natural political transition as experienced leaders step aside for the next generation. Majaliwa's dignified exit after 15 years of dedicated service demonstrates political maturity and statesmanship. His decision allows President Hassan the flexibility to build a fresh leadership team while maintaining party unity heading into crucial elections.

Daily

The Citizen

Narrative B

The coordinated departures of Majaliwa and Mpango suggest President Hassan is purging Magufuli-era officials to consolidate power rather than genuine voluntary retirements. Majaliwa's sudden reversal after promising to run again indicates internal pressure, possibly due to his perceived failures on human rights and governance issues that could hinder Hassan's reform agenda. Majaliwa's legacy has yet to be determined by history.