Joy for new Cabinet members

Dar es Salaam. Some of the new ministers who were yesterday appointed by President John Magufuli welcomed their appointment to run the dockets with joy.

President Magufuli announced his long-awaited Cabinet, which is designed to have 18 ministries. However, in total, there will be 19 ministers supported by 15 deputy ministers.

Mr Charles Mwijage, who was appointed the minister for Industry and Trade, told The Citizen in a telephone interview that the news of his appointment came as no surprise because he was anticipating to be selected for the position.

“I am confident and this selection by the President is what I was expecting. Even if I wasn’t selected, I would go ahead and advise the President in matters related to trade and strategic planning,’’ he said. Dr Magufuli has redesigned some of the portfolios, including the ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which now becomes the ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, the Elderly and Children.

He appointed Ms Ummy Mwalimu to head the new docket, and Dr Hamisi Kigwangala as the deputy minister. In her comment, Ms Mwalimu said she was ready to take up the position and face the challenges that come with running the docket. “I feel humbled to be appointed to the position and am ready to work with the government,’’ she wrote on her Facebook page, minutes after President Magufuli announced the new Cabinet.

Mr Nape Nnauye, who was appointed minister of Information, Culture, Artists and Sports gave some conflicting statements when he was approached by The Citizen to comment on his appointment.

He directed this reporter to seek comments from other politicians who had not been given the opportunity to head ministries instead.

“I can’t comment on this appointment as yet. I’m surprised you want me to comment on it. Go and ask those who have not been appointed to comment,’’ he said, cutting off the call immediately.

Other newly appointed ministers were not immediately available to comment as their mobile phones remained busy.