Tanzania's vice president resigned Tuesday, saying he wanted to respect the president's wishes.

"Today, August 25, 2026, I have written a letter to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, to inform her that I have decided to retire from politics and public service," Emmanuel Nchimbi said in a post shared on his Instagram account.

The message written in Swahili said that his resignation would take effect on September 4.

"On August 27, 2025, I promised Hon. President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan that I would assist her and our Country to the best of my ability and with integrity," Nchimbi's message notes.

‘President desires change’

He added that he had promised Hassan he would resign should she wish a different vice president and was "convinced beyond doubt that the president desires change".

There was no official reaction from the presidency.

Hassan became president following the death of John Magufuli in March 2021 and was initially praised for easing restrictions on the opposition and media.

Nchimbi says he thanks "all Tanzanians for the great cooperation you gave me throughout the time I served in public service. I assure you that I will continue to be a good citizen of Tanzania."