What unfolded in Havana? The Tanzanian ambassador to Cuba, Humphrey Polepole, has officially stepped down from his diplomatic duties. In an emphatic two-page letter, he explained his principles and reasons for resigning, marking his departure from the diplomatic scene and any public office. Initially, it appeared that something in the Caribbean island had influenced his decision. However, the reality is far more profound and troubling.
The news struck like a silent bombshell, as reported by local media in the African nation. Polepole, who was also Tanzania's representative to other Caribbean countries such as Venezuela, Colombia, and Guyana, announced on Sunday that he is leaving his post—not due to issues related to Cuba, but because of a moral crisis with his own government. "I can no longer be part of leadership that does not respect the Constitution, national values, ethics, and accountability to the citizens," wrote the 55-year-old ambassador in a letter addressed directly to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The diplomat, once a staunch supporter of former President John Magufuli and a former ideological spokesperson for the ruling CCM (Chama Cha Mapinduzi) party, publicly broke ranks without holding back. His letter is a blend of disillusionment, denunciation, and farewell. "I have lost faith in the current national leadership," Polepole asserted, in what is already considered one of the most impactful resignations in Tanzania's recent diplomatic history.
Crisis of Leadership and Ethical Divergence
Polepole directly criticized the ruling party's direction, denouncing a "culture of opportunism" and the manipulation of the party's motto, "The party first, the person afterward," which he claims has become an excuse to exclude and silence reformist voices. What's most striking is not just his resignation from his role in Cuba, but his decision to cut ties with any public office, clearly stating that he refuses to be part of what he describes as "a leadership space divorced from ethical values."
"Whose interests are truly being defended today? The people's, an individual's, a group's, or the party as an institution?" he questioned resolutely. Although he does not directly mention President Suluhu, the message is clear: he denounces a regression in democratic values, a betrayal of constitutional principles, and a political direction based more on blind loyalties than justice and public service.
Global Repercussions of Polepole's Resignation
Polepole's resignation happens amid a complex international context for Tanzania, as the nation approaches general elections in 2025 amid increasing reports of political repression, arbitrary detentions, and media censorship. The ambassador's action could spark internal tensions within the CCM and send a powerful signal that even within the most closed structures, principled dissent can exist.
From Cuba, where Polepole had resided since April 2023, no official statement has been made. Yet, his letter has caused a stir in diplomatic and political circles across both Africa and Latin America. Far from seeking the spotlight, Humphrey Polepole bids farewell with calm yet firm words: "I trust that history will correctly interpret this step."
Although he claims to remain a CCM member, he makes it clear that he will not continue to be complicit in a system he views as detached from justice, ethics, and accountability to the people. His resignation is more than just diplomatic news; it is a cry of conscience in a world where political loyalty often overshadows the truth.
Impact of Tanzanian Ambassador's Resignation
What were the main reasons behind Humphrey Polepole's resignation?
Humphrey Polepole resigned due to a moral crisis with the Tanzanian government, citing a lack of respect for the Constitution, national values, ethics, and accountability to citizens.
How did Polepole's resignation impact the ruling party in Tanzania?
His resignation could intensify internal tensions within the CCM and suggests that principled dissent exists even within tightly controlled structures.
What was the response from Cuba regarding Polepole's resignation?
There has been no official statement from Cuba following Polepole's resignation, but the letter has sparked discussions in diplomatic circles in both Africa and Latin America.