Tanzania’s President Samia Hassan Appoints Daughter, Son-in-Law as Ministers Amid Post-Election Controversy
Tanzania’s President Samia Hassan Appoints Daughter, Son-in-Law as Ministers Amid Post-Election Controversy
Tanzania’s President Samia Hassan Appoints Daughter, Son-in-Law as Ministers Amid Post-Election Controversy
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has appointed her daughter and son-in-law to key positions in her newly formed government, sparking fresh debate amid ongoing criticism of the country’s recent election. The appointments were announced on Monday during a nationwide broadcast, following her declaration as winner of the October 29 presidential election.
In the new cabinet structure, Wanu Hafidh Amei, the president’s daughter, was named Deputy Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, while her husband, Mohamed Mchengerwa, was appointed Minister of Health. The reshuffle includes 27 ministers and 29 deputy ministers, with several significant changes.
Tanzania’s Ambassador to China, Khamis Mussa Omar, was appointed Minister of Finance, while Adolf Mkenda retained his position as Minister for Education, Science, and Technology. Seven former ministers were dropped from the cabinet, but Anthony Mavunde and Mahmoud Thabit Kombo kept their portfolios as Ministers of Mining and Foreign Affairs, respectively.
President Hassan’s re-election has been heavily criticized by opposition groups and international observers. The poll was marred by violent protests, an internet shutdown, and a security crackdown that drew global concern.
The United Nations has called for a thorough investigation into reported deaths during the unrest, warning that authorities may be concealing evidence. Opposition party CHADEMA, whose candidate Tundu Lissu was barred from participating, alleges that around 700 people were killed—a claim the government denies. The party has since rejected the outcome of the election and refuses to recognize Hassan as the legitimate president.
The controversy surrounding the appointments and the election aftermath continues to fuel political tension as Tanzania enters a new administration cycle.
Tanzania’s President Samia Hassan Appoints Daughter, Son-in-Law as Ministers Amid Post-Election Controversy
