Majaliwa steps down after 15 years as Ruangwa MP

LINDI: PRIME Minister and Ruangwa MP Kassim Majaliwa has officially announced that he will not seek re-election in the upcoming General Election, marking the end of his 15-year tenure of dedicated service to the constituency.

Addressing members of the Regional and District Political Committees in Ruangwa, Lindi Region on Wednesday, Mr Majaliwa expressed his deep gratitude to the people of the constituency for their trust and unwavering support throughout his time as MP.

He urged them to maintain the unity and spirit of development that has defined his leadership.

“It has come to a point where, with the unity we have built, it is time to allow other development-minded citizens of Ruangwa to carry forward this momentum, so that our slogan, ‘Ruangwa for Development is Possible,’ can continue to thrive,” said Mr Majaliwa.

He called on the District Political Committee to embrace all aspirants seeking to contest the parliamentary seat, stressing the need for fairness, openness and unity in the electoral process.

He also encouraged Ruangwa residents to support candidates from the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), in the forthcoming election.

ALSO READ: PURA–ZPRA partnership vital to boosting Tanzania energy sector

“Our leader, President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, together with her running mate Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, will soon visit us. Let us turn out in large numbers, listen to their policies attentively and vote decisively for them when the time comes,” he urged.

He extended heartfelt thanks to President Samia and the CCM leadership for their continued trust in him and the opportunity to serve both his constituency and the nation.

Mr Majaliwa was first elected MP for Ruangwa in 2010 on a CCM ticket. Shortly afterward, he was appointed Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government—a post he held until 2015.

In the 2015 General Election, he was re-elected, defeating Civic United Front (CUF) candidate Omari Makota with 55 per cent of the vote (31,281 votes to 25,536). His quiet but effective leadership style earned him growing respect within the party.

Then newly elected President John Magufuli appointed Mr Majaliwa as Prime Minister on November 19, 2015. His humble background as a teacher, trade unionist and public servant combined with his reputation for integrity and discipline, made him a trusted figure.

Mr Majaliwa went on to serve two consecutive terms as Prime Minister under Presidents Magufuli and Samia Suluhu Hassan, playing a pivotal role in implementing government policy, overseeing national coordination efforts and representing the government in Parliament.

As he prepares to step back from the constituency, Mr Majaliwa leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, service and grassroots development in Ruangwa.