ARUSHA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango yesterday explained his decision to retire, stating that it is time to allow younger Tanzanians to take on leadership roles after decades of service in government.
Dr Mpango’s announcement comes nearly three weeks after ruling party Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) held its Extraordinary General Meeting, officially endorsing President Samia Suluhu Hassan as the party’s presidential candidate, with Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi as her running mate.
Speaking in Arusha at the 5th Annual e-Government Conference, where he officiated the opening, Dr Mpango reflected on his long career in public service and explained why he had chosen to retire.
“I have served in government for many years and in July this year, I will turn 68.
I taught at the university for 14 years, worked at the World Bank for five years, served as an assistant to President Jakaya Kikwete, led the Planning Commission for six years, served as Minister for Finance for five years and, finally, I have held the position of Vice-President.
I believe I have done my part,” he said. Dr Mpango said that leadership should not be monopolised by a few individuals, especially when many capable Tanzanians are sidelined. He stressed that it was time to give others the opportunity to serve the nation.
“I strongly believe that leadership is a shared responsibility. Many Tanzanians have not had the chance to serve at this level and it is only fair to give them the opportunity.
I also encourage others to document their experiences, so that future generations can learn from our history and continue to build our nation,” he noted.
Dr Mpango also stressed the significance of Tanzania’s youths, who make up the majority of the population.
According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, 77 per cent of Tanzania’s citizens are young people. “
This country has a large population of young people and I am confident that among them, there are individuals who are capable of assisting President Samia in moving the country forward,” he added.
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Earlier, the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Public Service Management and Good Governance), Mr George Simbachawene, admitted that many were surprised by Dr Mpango’s decision.
“This decision not only caught us off guard, but it also offers us a valuable lesson. Your willingness to step aside is a rare act of patriotism.
Many political leaders struggle to relinquish power, but you have shown that leadership is about service, not personal gain,” Mr Simbachawene said.
He praised Dr Mpango for setting an example in leadership transition,saying, “A wise traveller knows where to board a bus and where to disembark. You have shown us the importance of knowing when to step aside.”
Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda also weighed in, commending CCM for endorsing President Samia, while lauding Dr Mpango’s decision to retire as an act of integrity and selflessness. “Your decision is a sign of great wisdom and selfawareness.
It teaches many that leadership is a responsibility, not a lifetime entitlement. You leave behind a legacy of honesty and service to the nation,” said Mr Makonda.
