Parliament overwhelmingly backed Nchemba’s nomination on Thursday, a move widely expected after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the landslide winner of the 29 October vote. The election was marred by allegations of irregularities and violence, with rights groups reporting hundreds of protester deaths.
Nchemba, a veteran member of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party who also served in the cabinet of late president John Magufuli, pledged to work “diligently” in his new role.
Tanzania’s government forecasts 6% economic growth this year, supported by major infrastructure projects in transport and energy. Public spending is set to rise by about 12% to fund these developments, despite reductions in aid from international partners, including the US.
Opposition groups have accused Hassan’s administration of manipulating last month’s vote and excluding her main challengers, triggering widespread protests. Hassan, who has led Tanzania since 2021, has rejected accusations of human rights abuses and insisted the election was fair.
The UN Human Rights Office said it believes hundreds were killed during the unrest, while opposition figures and activists claim the toll exceeds 1,000. The government disputes these numbers but has not released its own estimate.
Nchemba, a member of parliament since 2010, previously served as the CCM’s deputy secretary-general. Analysts say his appointment reflects Hassan’s long-standing trust in him, noting he has retained senior roles through multiple cabinet reshuffles.