Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has removed Information Minister Nape Nnauye from his position following controversial comments he made about election rigging.
The decision was part of a larger cabinet reshuffle announced on Sunday.
Nnauye’s remarks, made at a rally on July 15, sparked widespread outrage after a video of his speech went viral.
In the video, he said, “Election results are not necessarily those in the [ballot box], rather they depend on the person counting and making announcements.” He also boasted about his ability to manipulate election results, saying, “Because I’m good at election tricks, I will assist to emerge victorious.” Nnauye mentioned using various methods, “legal, half legal and illegal,” and added, “All of them could be used provided after the conclusion you seek God’s forgiveness.”
Nnauye later claimed his comments were made in jest, but the backlash continued. Many Tanzanians criticized him for disrespecting electoral democracy and the voters’ decision. In response, Nnauye apologized, stating he believed in “free and fair elections.”
This is not the first time Nnauye has faced criticism for similar remarks. Before the 2015 elections, he said the ruling CCM party would win “by all means,” even comparing it to scoring a “handball goal” in football. The CCM party has been in power since 1977, and opposition leaders have accused it of election fraud and state repression, though the electoral commission denies these claims.
Nnauye was first appointed as information minister by the late President John Magufuli and was reappointed by President Samia in January 2022. He will be replaced by former land and housing development minister Jerry Slaa.
In addition to Nnauye’s removal, Foreign Minister January Makamba has also been sacked. Tanzania’s ambassador to Italy, Mahmoud Thabiti Kombo, will succeed him.
