Ndejembi Emerges as CCM Choice to Succeed Nchimbi as Tanzania Vice-President

Tanzania’s ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has settled on Energy Minister Deogratius John Ndejembi as its candidate to fill the country’s vacant Vice-President position.

The decision was reached on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, after CCM’s Central Committee and National Executive Committee held separate meetings chaired by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Ndejembi secured unanimous backing from the NEC, putting him on course to occupy one of Tanzania’s most senior constitutional offices.

CCM Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro confirmed the decision, saying the party had approved Ndejembi to take over from Emmanuel Nchimbi.

However, the minister’s appointment is not automatic. His name must first be forwarded to the National Assembly, where MPs will vote on whether to approve him. Only after Parliament gives its approval will the constitutional process leading to his swearing-in begin.

The development follows Nchimbi’s decision to leave the Vice-President’s office after concluding that President Hassan wanted a different person in the position.

Nchimbi announced his resignation on August 25, saying he was honouring an earlier commitment he had made to the President.

According to Nchimbi, he had assured Hassan in August 2025 that he would continue supporting her administration and would willingly vacate the office if she eventually decided that a change was necessary.

He said he had now become convinced that the President wanted a new Vice-President and therefore chose to step aside.

Nchimbi is expected to formally leave office on September 4, 2026. He has also announced his retirement from active politics and public service.

His departure brings an end to his tenure as President Hassan’s deputy and sets the stage for Ndejembi to potentially take up the role.

For Ndejembi, the nomination represents a major political elevation from his current position as Energy Minister to the country’s second-highest constitutional office.

His immediate hurdle is now parliamentary approval. If MPs endorse him, Tanzania will have a new Vice-President following a relatively swift transition triggered by Nchimbi’s resignation.

The change also puts Ndejembi in a prominent position within President Hassan’s administration and could increase his visibility in Tanzania’s national political landscape.

For CCM, the unanimous endorsement signals a coordinated party position behind the proposed succession, although the final decision rests with Parliament.