Tanzanian activist Mange Kimambi has taken aim at President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her administration following the United States’ decision to impose a partial travel ban on Tanzanian nationals.
The move comes amid growing diplomatic tensions between Tanzania and Western nations, sparked by concerns over governance and human rights.
Kimambi argues that the U.S. action is a direct response to President Samia’s earlier defiance of Western criticism, when she told foreign powers to stop interfering in Tanzania’s internal affairs.
In a post on X, she mocked the government for what she described as contradictory messaging.
She questioned why officials are now seeking international approval after previously dismissing Western influence, particularly following Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Kombo’s recent meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Kombo claimed that Guterres praised Tanzania as an example of peace, a narrative Kimambi openly ridiculed.
“You are so funny, didn’t you tell these people ‘who are you?’ Why are you now trying to be accepted by the same people?” Kimambi wrote.
She linked the current diplomatic fallout to Tanzania’s recent elections, which she maintains were marred by irregularities and fraud.
According to Kimambi, these events have further strained the country’s relations with its international partners.
The U.S. travel restrictions were announced shortly after Washington warned it could review its relationship with Tanzania, citing serious human rights violations, particularly during the October 29 protests.
The European Parliament has also proposed suspending aid to Tanzania over similar concerns.
Despite mounting pressure, the Tanzanian government has dismissed calls for accountability and has instead accused critics of undermining the state.
By Newshub