Samia drops five Regional Commissioners as ruling CCM nomination window approaches

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has reshuffled her administration, leaving out five Regional Commissioners (RCs) in a move that comes just days before the ruling party, CCM, opens its nomination window for the 2025 General Election.

Those dropped from their roles include Paul Makonda (Arusha), Peter Serukamba (Iringa), Thobias Andengenye (Kigoma), Juma Homera (Mbeya) and Daniel Chongolo (Songwe).

The changes were announced on Monday night, June 23, 2025, in a statement issued by the Presidential Communications Directorate, quoting Chief Secretary Ambassador Moses Kusiluka.

The timing of the changes has fuelled speculation that some of the outgoing RCs may be preparing to seek parliamentary seats under the CCM banner, as the party prepares to open its nomination window on June 28 at 8am.

Political insiders suggest Makonda is positioning himself for the Arusha Urban constituency, Serukamba is eyeing Kigoma North, Dr Homera is linked to Namtumbo and Chongolo is said to be targeting Makambako.

The reshuffle comes as CCM intensifies preparations for its internal nomination processes, expected to attract high-profile aspirants ahead of the October 2025 polls.

While the Presidency has not officially linked the changes to political ambitions, analysts view the move as a strategic alignment ahead of a heated electoral season