Ndejembi wins strong backing

DAR ES SALAAM: LEADERS across the National Assembly, the Cabinet and political analyst circles have expressed confidence in Vice-President-designate Deogratius Ndejembi’s ability to serve in the country’s second-highest office.

The strong endorsement, expressed in the National Assembly yesterday, highlights growing consensus across government and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) that Mr Ndejembi is well positioned to assist President Samia Suluhu Hassan in advancing the country’s development agenda.

The nomination was officially confirmed late on Wednesday when CCM Secretary General Dr AshaRose Migiro announced at the party’s Lumumba sub-headquarters in Dar es Salaam that top party organs had endorsed Mr Ndejembi without dissent.

Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba led the tributes during the Prime Minister’s Questions session in the National Assembly, describing the Energy Minister as a diligent, humble, and trustworthy leader.

“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate Mr Ndejembi for earning the trust of the President, the CCM Central Committee and the National Executive Committee,” he said, while commending President Samia for her foresight in selecting a hardworking and sincere leader.

Dr Nchemba assured that the Cabinet stands ready to cooperate fully with Mr Ndejembi in discharging his responsibilities, particularly in supporting the President to deliver on key national priorities.

In National Assembly, legislators echoed similar sentiments during debate on the Agricultural Laws (Amendments) Act, pledging to work closely with the Vice-President-designate to ensure effective implementation of government responsibilities.

Ritta Kabati (Kilolo, CCM) thanked the President and party leadership for the nomination, noting that unity among national leaders will be key in enabling Mr Ndejembi to deliver on government priorities.

Janneth Mahawanga (Special Seats, CCM) also affirmed her readiness to cooperate with the nominee, while Ernest Nollo (Bahi, CCM) said the move reflected strong confidence in Mr Ndejembi’s leadership ability.

“I know him well and believe he will make a meaningful contribution in supporting government responsibilities,” Mr Nollo said, stressing the significance of the Vice-President’s office.

Ministers and deputy ministers who responded to various questions in the House also pledged their cooperation, reinforcing a unified government stance behind the nominee.

Within CCM, the nomination has equally received unanimous backing.

The party’s Secretary for Ideology, Propaganda and Training, Mr Kenani Kihongosi, said members of the National Executive Committee endorsed Mr Ndejembi’s name without dissent.

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“With respect, we unanimously accepted the proposal and have full confidence in his ability to serve,” he said.

Political analysts have also welcomed the nomination, describing Mr Ndejembi as an experienced and capable leader whose background in both party and government positions equips him for the demanding role.

Seasoned political analyst Mr Hamiduni Maliseli said Mr Ndejembi is a loyal CCM cadre shaped by longstanding involvement in party affairs, noting that his leadership credentials have been strengthened by experience in various public offices, including as District Commissioner and minister.

“He is undoubtedly a product of the struggle,” Mr Maliseli said, adding that his appointment to key portfolios such as the Ministry of Energy demonstrates his competence in handling sensitive national responsibilities.

He described Mr Ndejembi as a people-oriented leader who communicates effectively with wananchi and has built strong grassroots support during his tenure as Member of Parliament for Chamwino.

Mr Maliseli further noted that the nominee’s experience in managing political dynamics could be valuable in helping the President address differing views and pressures within and outside the ruling party.

Public Administration and Governance expert Dr Adam Mnyavanu said Mr Ndejembi’s relatively young age is an advantage, giving him the potential to serve the country for many years.

“For Tanzanians, he is an asset. He should build his leadership on the foundations of national unity,” Dr Mnyavanu said.

He noted that the Vice President-designate will shoulder key responsibilities, including safeguarding the Union between Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, supporting the implementation of the CCM Election Manifesto 2025–2030 and ensuring effective government performance.

Mr Ndejembi, 43, is set to replace outgoing Vice President Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, who recently resigned.

His nomination, already endorsed by the party’s top organs, will be forwarded to the National Assembly for constitutional procedures and confirmation in accordance with the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Late in Wednesday CCM Secretary General Dr AshaRose Migiro announced at the party’s Lumumba sub-headquarters in Dar es Salaam that the party had unanimously endorsed Mr Ndejembi as its Vice-President nominee.