Tanzanians are expressing growing concern over the absence of Vice-President Philip Mpango, who has not been seen in public for over a month, sparking rumours and speculations about his well-being.
Vice-President Mpango, 66, was expected to attend a science conference in Arusha on Wednesday but was instead represented by a cabinet minister. This absence has fueled speculation about his health, leading to concerns among the public. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has urged against spreading unfounded rumours and clarified that the vice-president is out of the country for official duties.
This is not the first time rumours about Mr. Mpango’s health have circulated. Before assuming the role of vice-president, he served as finance minister under the late President John Magufuli. In March 2021, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, Mpango addressed a news conference in Dodoma to deny false reports of his own death. The current constitution dictates that, in the event of the president’s death or incapacitation, the vice-president assumes the presidency for the remainder of the term.
The last public appearance of Vice-President Mpango was on October 31, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan during a virtual meeting of the Southern African Development Community. Concerns have grown following the uncharacteristic silence of Mpango amid a tragic incident in the Hanang region. Social media users have expressed unease about his health and the lack of commentary on the recent landslides.
Despite the growing concern, Prime Minister Majaliwa has urged citizens not to engage in baseless speculation. “Ignore the crazy things on social media; Dr. Philip Mpango is out of the country on official duties,” he stated on Saturday. The vice-president’s office has not provided immediate comments on the matter. The mystery surrounding Vice-President Mpango’s absence continues, with citizens awaiting official clarification.
Kiki Garba
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