Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has appointed her daughter and son-in-law as ministers in her new cabinet, a move that has sparked fresh controversy after a violent and heavily disputed election.
In a nationwide broadcast on Monday, President Hassan announced 27 ministers and 29 deputy ministers.
Among them was her daughter, Wanu Hafidh Amei, who was named Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Technology. Her husband, Mohamed Mchengerwa, was appointed Minister of Health.
The president also appointed Tanzania’s ambassador to China, Khamis Mussa Omar, as the new Minister of Finance.
Meanwhile, Adolf Mkenda retained his position as Minister of Education, Science, and Technology.
Seven former ministers were removed from the cabinet, but Anthony Mavunde and Mahmoud Thabit Kombo kept their portfolios as Minister of Mining and Minister of Foreign Affairs, respectively.
President Hassan’s re-election continues to face intense criticism following the October 29 polls, which were marred by violence, an internet shutdown, and a widespread crackdown on opposition supporters.
International bodies have condemned the election process.
The United Nations called for a full investigation into reported killings, alleging that security forces removed bodies to destroy evidence.
The opposition party CHADEMA, whose candidate Tundu Lissu was barred from running, claims about 700 people were killed during the election.
The party has refused to recognise Hassan as the legitimate president.
Election observer groups including the African Union, European Union, Southern African Development Community, and the diplomatic missions of the UK, Canada, and Norway denounced the polls as not credible.
They highlighted fatalities, the internet blackout, disqualification of opposition candidates, and violent repression of protesters.