President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has firmly rejected criticism from several Western nations, including the US, regarding the country’s handling of domestic issues such as political violence and disappearances. During a speech in the Kilimanjaro region, Hassan defended her government’s actions, stressing that Tanzania does not need external interference to manage its internal affairs.
The rebuke followed a statement from the US Embassy and a joint release by the EU, Britain, Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, urging an independent investigation into the murder of opposition leader Ali Mohamed Kibao. Kibao, formerly of the opposition party CHADEMA, was found murdered in Dar es Salaam, prompting international concern over the treatment of political and human rights activists in Tanzania.
Hassan responded sharply, saying, ‘We’re not here to be told how to run our country,’ and cited incidents of gun violence in the US as an example of global problems that do not justify interference from foreign diplomats. She underscored that her government is committed to upholding Tanzania’s constitution and ensuring security, without the need for guidance from external actors.
This speech marks a significant defence of Tanzania’s sovereignty amid increasing scrutiny from Western nations over the handling of political violence and human rights issues in the country. President Samia stressed that Tanzania will manage its own affairs, maintaining that the security of the nation is the responsibility of her government alone.
Despite the criticism, Tanzania has remained firm in its stance that it will not allow foreign embassies to dictate its governance, while reaffirming a commitment to address internal matters independently.
This strong statement reflects growing tensions between Tanzania and Western nations concerned about political violence, disappearances, and human rights abuses in the East African nation. However, President Samia’s administration insists that all such matters will be dealt with internally, without the influence of foreign governments.
Reuters
