Tanzania’s ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has expelled Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi days after his resignation, in a move widely read as retaliation. The party accused Nchimbi of indiscipline and nominated Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi as his replacement. Observers believe that Nchimbi and President Samia Suluhu Hassan fell out over governance issues, particularly the violent suppression of protesters following last October’s contentious elections. For CCM, removing a senior figure reinforces party discipline and Hassan’s authority. For Tanzania’s opposition and civil society, however, it signals shrinking space for internal dissent. CCM has governed Tanzania since the country gained independence in 1961 and is deeply fused with the state. The episode tests the party’s political dominance and Tanzania’s reputation for peaceful transitions.