This archive report was first published on 12 September 2019.
On September 12, 2019, Tanzania's President John Magufuli made a significant move in the country's intelligence network by sacking the head of the Tanzania Intelligence and Security Service (TISS), Modestus Kipilimba.
According to the presidency, Kipilimba was dismissed as director general of TISS after serving for three years in the post. No reason was given for his dismissal.
Magufuli has appointed Diwani Athuman Msuya as the new director general of national intelligence, effective immediately. Msuya has a background in law enforcement, having previously served as head of the anti-corruption agency and director of criminal investigations in the police force.
Under Tanzanian law, the spy chief serves for a five-year term, which is renewable. Msuya's appointment takes immediate effect, and it is unclear what role Kipilimba will take on next.
The move has sparked speculation that Magufuli may be planning to shake up the country's intelligence service ahead of elections next year.
