Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has removed two key figures from her cabinet, including the foreign minister, in a surprise reshuffle announced late Sunday. The move comes as Hassan navigates a delicate balance between enacting reforms and maintaining control within her own party.
The ousted ministers are January Makamba, previously responsible for foreign affairs and East African cooperation, and Nape Nnauye, who oversaw information, communication, and information technology. Both hold significant influence within the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.
While the reasoning behind their dismissal remains undisclosed, Nnauye’s recent actions may have played a role. A video surfaced last week showing him making controversial remarks about the potential for manipulation in election results. Though he later apologized, claiming it was a joke, the comments raised concerns among activists and online commentators about the government’s commitment to democratic progress.
Replacing Makamba is Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Tanzania’s former ambassador to Italy. Jerry Silaa, previously minister of lands, housing, and human settlements development, steps into the information technology role. The presidency also announced the appointment of two additional ministers and deputy ministers.
Hassan has been in power since 2021 and initially garnered international acclaim for reversing the stricter policies of her predecessor towards opposition groups and civil society. However, the arrest of a lawyer and an opposition politician last year cast a shadow over her government’s human rights record.
