President Samia’s Cabinet Shuffle Sparks Outrage Over Flawed Vetting and Strategic Concerns

By Adonis Byemelwa

Shinyanga: President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recent cabinet reshuffle has stirred significant controversy, unveiling critical flaws in Tanzania’s government vetting process and raising questions about her strategic intentions. The reshuffle, announced on August 15, 2024, marks the President’s fourth major overhaul this year and her fourteenth since taking office in 2021.

In a brief yet pointed address to the newly appointed leaders, President Samia urged them to harness their expertise and exceed expectations, stressing the need to apply "common sense" in their roles. “What I want to emphasize is what the Vice President mentioned, that in your work, there is an expertise in what you studied, and you need to go beyond and use ‘common sense.’ When you see that ‘common sense’ can be applied effectively, use it, enhance your performance, and serve the citizens,” she said.

However, the reshuffle was marred by a shocking oversight: Milton Lupa, who had tragically died in a car accident just days before the announcement, was mistakenly included in the new appointments list. Lupa was slated to become the Director of the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) Tanzania.

Chief Secretary Dr. Moses Kusiluka revealed the reshuffle on June 6, 2024, inadvertently listing Lupa, who died in a car accident in Morogoro on June 2. This grave error has spotlighted serious issues in the government’s vetting procedures, exposing deep cracks in the appointment process and inciting widespread public outrage.

Renowned journalist and political analyst Ansbert Ngurumo, currently residing in exile in Finland, has sharply criticized the government’s vetting process. “The inclusion of a deceased individual in the new appointments list is not merely an administrative slipup; it reveals systemic flaws that undermine public trust,” Ngurumo said.

He pointed out that developed countries have rigorous vetting systems involving detailed questionnaires and panel interviews. In contrast, Tanzania’s reliance on personal connections and nepotism often results in appointments that are abruptly reversed, further eroding public confidence.

Ngurumo’s criticism is echoed by Dar es Salaam-based political analyst Buberwa Kaiza. “This incident reveals that the vetting process in Tanzania is deeply flawed,” Kaiza stated. “It’s not just about this particular mistake; it reflects a broader issue where appointments are made based on connections rather than merit. This kind of oversight undermines the credibility of the entire administrative system.”

The reshuffle has also overshadowed other significant appointments, such as Ms. Zuhura Yunus as Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office and the transfer of Ms. Fatma Nyangasa from Kisarawe to Kondoa District.

Critics argue that the reshuffle’s focus on personal connections over merit has led to the removal of well-regarded ministers like Jerry Slaa and Ummy Mwalimu, whose performances had been commendable.

John Maranja, another prominent political analyst based in Dar es Salaam, commented on the reshuffle’s implications. “The removal of effective ministers like Jerry Slaa and Ummy Mwalimu raises questions about the President’s decision-making process,” Maranja said. “It seems the reshuffle is driven more by political considerations rather than a genuine assessment of performance.”

The reshuffle has also generated speculation about President Samia’s political strategy ahead of the November 2024 civic elections and the 2025 general elections. Analysts suggest that the frequent reshuffles might be a strategic move to consolidate political support.

However, the resignation of Deputy CCM Chairman Tanzania Mainland, Abdulrahman Kinana, has created a political vacuum. Insiders indicate that Kinana’s dissatisfaction with the inclusion of certain figures, such as Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda, and the dismissal of former Foreign Affairs Minister January Makamba and Information Technology and Press Minister Nape Nnauye, may have influenced the reshuffle’s contentious nature.

Paul Masalu, a political activist from Shinyanga, commented on the reshuffle, noting that it appears either poorly advised or driven by ulterior motives. “The reshuffle seems to reflect a lack of good advisers or an overreliance on advisers whose recommendations the President ultimately overrides,” Masalu said. “This has led to decisions that may not align with the best interests of the country.”

The controversy surrounding the reshuffle has intensified scrutiny over President Samia’s administration. The appointment of Milton Lupa posthumously has not only exposed administrative inefficiencies but also highlighted the urgent need for reform in appointment processes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the systemic issues that need addressing to restore public trust and ensure effective governance.

In the context of ongoing concerns about governance and transparency, Buberwa Kaiza emphasizes the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the appointment process. “The flaws in the vetting system are indicative of a broader problem within the administration. There needs to be a systemic change to ensure that appointments are made based on merit and that such egregious errors are prevented in the future,” Kaiza said.

John Maranja echoes this sentiment, urging for greater transparency and accountability. “The current system allows for too many errors and inconsistencies. There needs to be a stronger focus on transparency and accountability in the appointment process to rebuild public confidence,” Maranja said.

The reshuffle’s impact on Tanzania’s political landscape is further compounded by the criticism of the recent changes. Some critics argue that the reshuffle, despite its controversies, reflects a broader trend of political maneuvering rather than genuine efforts to improve governance. The removal of ministers who were performing well and the inclusion of controversial figures have led to speculation about the President’s true intentions.

As the investigation into the mishandling of Milton Lupa’s appointment progresses, the public and human rights advocates will be watching closely. This incident not only highlights the need for rigorous oversight and systemic reform but also serves as a critical juncture for President Samia’s administration. The glaring flaws exposed by the reshuffle reveal deep systemic issues that must be addressed to restore public trust and ensure effective governance.

In essence, the dramatic turn of events, and reallocation have cast a glaring spotlight on President Samia’s administration’s vetting processes, exposing critical flaws. The appointment of a deceased individual and the ensuing controversy highlight systemic issues that erode government credibility at a time when the nation is gearing up for elections.

This blooper highlights an urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of appointment procedures. The focus must shift to merit-based selections and rigorous oversight to restore confidence and ensure effective governance. The reinstatement of former Minister William Lukuvi, praised for his work in land and settlement, coupled with Professor Palamagamba Kabudi’s involvement, raises questions about the quality of advice the President is receiving.

Political activist John Masalu, from Bugweto ‘B’, Ibadakuli ward in Shinyanga Municipality, argues that the President's choices suggest a troubling lack of effective counsel—or perhaps that the President herself is steering the advisory process.

With Tanzania approaching the civic elections in November 2024 and the general elections in 2025, this controversy is set to become a pivotal issue, potentially reshaping the political landscape and influencing public perception of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership. The appointment blunder and the debate over her advisors’ effectiveness are likely to dominate the political discourse, challenging the administration's credibility and fueling scrutiny as the nation prepares for these crucial elections.