BY placing trusted and capable leaders in key positions, the government intends to ensure that policies and development plans are effectively executed to meet the expectations and needs of Tanzanians, President Samia Suluhu Hassan declared yesterday.

The president made this remark after swearing-in newly appointed officials at the State House in Dar es Salaam, affirming that the reshuffle is intended to ensure that leaders gain experience across different sectors.

They will also be better equipped to contribute to Tanzania’s national development goals, she said, setting clear directives for the new appointees in stressing the importance of responsibility, integrity and dedication to public service.

Reminding them that their performance would directly influence the success of national development initiatives, she stated that exposure to different sectors helps to create a generation of leaders who are versatile, experienced and ready to take on higher roles in government.

This ensures continuity and stability in the nation’s development agenda, she remarked in astute defense of the latest reshuffle, moving some personal aides to other government positions.

This is part of a broader strategy to mentor leaders, prepare them for greater responsibilities and strengthen the implementation of government programmes, she emphasized.

“I mentor leaders by giving them opportunities to learn, grow and prepare for higher responsibilities. Ambassador Rajab Salum has worked closely with me for a long time. Reassigning him as permanent secretary at the Industry and Trade ministry is part of the same practice I apply to many leaders,” she said.

Reshuffle is not a demotion but a deliberate effort to expose leaders to diverse areas of governance, enabling them to build capacity and expertise, she further noted, citing the case of Dr Blandina Kilama, moving from economic adviser to deputy executive secretary for the Planning Commission, in like manner as Juma Mkomi, appointed permanent secretary for Public Service Management, along with ex-aide Petro Magoti, moved to Kisarawe as district commissioner four years ago.

“Tanzania has many loud voices. Everything you do is interpreted differently. I mentor people, expose them to different sectors and help them grow. Otherwise, I would have kept aides assisting me indefinitely. When I leave the office, where would they be? Whoever comes next will bring their own team. Stop spreading false narratives,” the president intoned.

The reshuffle is aimed at strengthening government implementation and accountability, she added.