Tensions are rising in East Africa after Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, gave a strong response to several Western countries, including the US, UK, and others, who called for an independent investigation into the recent murder of Ali Mohamed Kibao. Kibao, a well-known opposition leader, was found dead in Dar es Salaam last week, sparking outrage and concern both in Tanzania and internationally.
Western embassies, including those from the US, UK, Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, have been vocal, urging Tanzania to dig deeper into the circumstances of Kibao’s death. They expressed concerns not only about this murder but also about the rising cases of violence, disappearances, and the targeting of political and human rights activists in Tanzania. In response, President Hassan delivered a blunt message: Tanzania doesn’t need foreign nations telling it how to handle its internal matters.
During a public address, she made it clear that her government will not tolerate any interference in Tanzania’s domestic affairs. She said, “We’re not here to be told how to run our country,” and emphasized that the Tanzanian authorities are fully capable of handling the investigation themselves. President Hassan assured the nation that the government’s priority is to protect the security of Tanzanian citizens, and she vowed to uphold the constitution without outside influence.
Without mentioning any specific embassies by name, Hassan also took a jab at the US, pointing out the country’s own struggles with gun violence. She reminded critics that no nation is free from crime, highlighting that Tanzania has never meddled in the internal affairs of other countries, and she expects the same respect in return.
The president’s comments come at a time when Tanzania is facing increasing international scrutiny for how it handles the safety and rights of its citizens, especially activists and opposition figures. Yet, Hassan stood firm, stressing that her administration will do whatever it takes to maintain peace and security in the country — and they will do it without being directed by anyone from the outside.
This firm stance has sparked debate both within and outside Tanzania. On one hand, some Tanzanians feel proud of their president for standing up to powerful Western countries, defending the nation’s sovereignty. On the other hand, critics, both at home and abroad, worry that the government is not doing enough to investigate the violence and ensure justice for victims like Kibao.
As the story develops, many will be watching to see how the Tanzanian government handles the investigation, and whether the international pressure will continue to mount. For now, President Hassan has made one thing clear: Tanzania will manage its affairs on its own terms.
