Who is the next Prime Minister after Majaliwa’s surprise exit?

The decision has opened the door for President Samia Suluhu Hassan to appoint a new Prime Minister should CCM secure victory in the upcoming polls.

With Mr Majaliwa stepping down, speculation is intensifying over who will become Tanzania’s 11th Prime Minister—or 12th if Julius Nyerere’s 1961–62 premiership is considered.

Potential successors include Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko, Finance minister Mwigulu Nchemba, senior cabinet figures such as William Lukuvi and Innocent Bashungwa and influential MP January Makamba.

Mr Majaliwa, 64, confirmed his decision during a local CCM meeting in Ruangwa on Wednesday. Without elaborating on his reasons, he said, “It is time to give others the opportunity to unite and build on the development foundation we’ve established.”

The move comes just a week after Mr Majaliwa last week told Parliament that he would seek another term. In September last year, he also assured constituents during a constituency rally that he would run again, making Wednesday’s withdrawal both unexpected and politically significant.

Observers view his exit as statesmanlike. Former Prime Minister Frederick Sumaye called the decision wise: “After serving as Prime Minister, returning to Parliament as an ordinary MP can be awkward. Majaliwa chose dignity over redundancy.”

Legal scholar Abdallah Safari lauded the move and used the moment to advocate for term limits for MPs and stronger vetting standards to enhance parliamentary credibility.

A senior government official, speaking anonymously, raised practical concerns: “How would a former Prime Minister operate in Parliament alongside ministers he once supervised? This move avoids such awkwardness.”

Mr Majaliwa’s decade-long premiership spanned two contrasting administrations: the late John Magufuli’s assertive rule and the reform-driven presidency of Samia Suluhu Hassan.

He was appointed in November 2015, unexpectedly elevated from Deputy Minister to Prime Minister. His early focus was to oversee the historic relocation of government headquarters from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma.

“Majaliwa operationalised the Dodoma move,” said a senior civil servant. “He pushed ministries to relocate, supervised construction and ensured compliance, especially in building government housing and office blocks.”

By mid-2020, more than 90 percent of government institutions had moved. Known for surprise visits and a firm leadership style, Mr Majaliwa was often seen as a quiet but decisive enforcer.

“One of his trademarks was firm follow-through,” said Dr Christopher Buberwa, a political scientist. “He wasn’t flamboyant, but he got results. His legacy is one of quiet stability.”

Mr Majaliwa became a familiar face in Parliament, defending ambitious national budgets and coordinating mega-projects, including the standard gauge railway (SGR), Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHP), and nationwide school and health facility construction.

He was also instrumental in sustaining government functionality after President Magufuli’s sudden death in March 2021. Analysts credit him with maintaining calm within CCM and ensuring a seamless leadership transition to President Hassan.

University of Dar es Salaam lecturer Mussa Toneli noted: “Majaliwa stabilised the ship during a difficult time. His loyalty and restraint helped ease uncertainty within government and the ruling party.”

His exit follows that of Vice President Philip Mpango, who also announced he would not contest any position in 2025. The near-simultaneous retirement of two key leaders from the Magufuli era has ignited speculation of a generational shift within CCM.

“This looks coordinated,” said CCM insider Thomas Mrosso. “It appears designed to allow President Hassan the space to craft her second-term leadership lineup.”

Who could be next?

Among those touted for the Prime Minister’s seat is Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko. As Minister of Energy and former Minister of Minerals, he has earned praise for pragmatism and loyalty, qualities likely to appeal to President Hassan.

Finance minister Mwigulu Nchemba, an economist and seasoned politician, is also seen as a frontrunner. A former presidential aspirant in 2015, Dr Nchemba has held several key portfolios and is widely viewed as competent and politically grounded.

Mr William Lukuvi, who has served as Isimani MP since 1995 and is a senior figure in the current Cabinet, also has decades of experience, having  served in multiple ministries.

Others include Mr January Makamba, the influential MP for Bumbuli, who has reemerged in national politics after reconciling with President Hassan earlier this year.

“I want to call my son January (Makamba) here, let him return to his mother,” President Hassan during a tour of Tanga Region in February, a remark widely seen as a political pardon.

Mr Makamba, who previously served in various ministerial roles, including Environment and Energy, was once part of the 2015 CCM presidential top five shortlist.

Also in contention is Mr Innocent Bashungwa, MP for Karagwe, who has rotated through several high-profile ministries, including Defence, Works and Home Affairs.

What’s next for Majaliwa?

Despite not contesting, Mr Majaliwa’s age and political capital suggest he may not entirely exit public life. Some speculate he could be tapped for a senior party role such as CCM secretary-general, especially if the current officeholder, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, ascends to the vice presidency as expected.

Alternatively, he could take on a presidential advisory or diplomatic post. Yet, his language implies a desire to rest: “It’s time to give others a chance,” he said.

Religious and civil society leaders have lauded his decision. Anglican Bishop Jackson Sosteness described Majaliwa as “a humble, hardworking patriot,” noting his openness to grassroots concerns and love for sport.

Retired Catholic Bishop Methodius Kilaini echoed the sentiment: “He was accessible, respectful and collaborative, especially with religious leaders. His absence will be felt.”

Sheikh Khamis Mataka, chairperson of Bakwata’s National Executive Council, said: “Majaliwa’s tenure was marked by discipline, not drama. His retirement is an example of political maturity.”

Dr Kaanaeli Kaale, chairperson of Tamwa, said: “Even when the country lost its President, Majaliwa held firm. He served with stability, patience and resilience.”

A journey from classroom to cabinet

Born on December 22, 1960, in Mnacho village, Lindi Region, Majaliwa trained as a teacher and sports educator. He later earned a degree in Education from the University of Dar es Salaam and completed postgraduate studies in Sweden.

He was appointed District Commissioner for Urambo in 2006, then Rufiji, before becoming Deputy Minister in 2010 and eventually Prime Minister in 2015.

His rise from humble roots to one of the country’s highest offices has been widely admired and his dignified departure is seen as a fitting end to a remarkable journey.

As Tanzania edges closer to the 2025 General Election, attention now turns to President Hassan — who will she choose to help steer her second term?

Whoever is named must combine loyalty, competence and a national appeal. But most importantly, they must be ready to match or exceed the calm, efficient leadership that Kassim Majaliwa quietly delivered over ten consequential years.