Tanzania’s Vice-President Emmanuel Nchimbi has announced his resignation following reports of a rift with President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

In a brief letter shared on Instagram, the 54-year-old stated he respects the president’s wishes.

His office also confirmed the resignation.

Nchimbi plans to retire from public life next week, marking a historic moment as the first vice-president to step down in Tanzania.

As Samia’s running mate in last October’s contested elections, marked by post-poll violence that resulted in approximately 500 deaths, his departure comes less than 10 months after they took office with 98% of the vote.

Nchimbi acknowledged the need for change, referencing a promise to resign if the president desired a new deputy.

He expressed gratitude to Samia, the ruling CCM party, and Tanzanians for their support.

His recent controversial statements, including a call for a new constitution to enhance governance and human rights, might have contributed to the tensions with the president.

Nchimbi has previously held multiple senior government roles, including minister of information and ambassador to Brazil and Egypt.