Tanzania parliament approves Deogratius Ndejembi as new vice president

Tanzania’s parliament has unanimously approved Deogratius John Ndejembi as the new vice president, following the departure of Emmanuel Nchimbi.

All 324 lawmakers who voted backed Ndejembi, with none voting against or abstaining.

The Chamwino MP pledged loyalty to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and said he would work to unite Tanzanians and help implement the government’s agenda.

“I will strive, with great humility, to assist the President in serving as a bridge to all Tanzanians, regardless of political ideology or religion,” he told parliament.

Ndejembi also said he would serve all Tanzanians rather than only members and supporters of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.

“I will not be a Vice President for CCM alone, but a Vice President for all Tanzanians, regardless of their political affiliations,” he said.

His appointment follows the resignation of Nchimbi, who announced on 25 August that he was retiring from public service and active politics.

Nchimbi had initially said his resignation would take effect on 4 September.

However, Attorney General Hamza Johari told parliament that Nchimbi ceased to be vice president on 26 August after being expelled from CCM, leaving the office vacant.

His departure came amid political tensions within CCM and debate over the country’s political direction following the disputed 2025 elections.

Ndejembi, who previously served as energy minister, also held the portfolio for lands, housing and human settlements development.

His appointment places a relatively young politician in one of Tanzania’s highest offices.

Responding to questions about his age and experience, Ndejembi said his performance should be judged by his loyalty to the president, integrity and commitment to serving Tanzanians.

He said his appointment showed that CCM was developing younger politicians for leadership positions.

“I believe this is a demonstration that the party is nurturing young people to take up leadership roles,” he said.

Ndejembi is expected to work closely with President Hassan on government coordination and the implementation of her development agenda.

His unanimous approval gives Hassan a new deputy with experience in both parliament and government as Tanzania enters a politically sensitive period.