Vocal activist and media personality Mange Kimambi has criticised President William Ruto following his recent two-day state visit to Tanzania, raising concerns over his public remarks and diplomatic tone toward Tanzanian leader Samia Suluhu Hassan.
During the visit, Ruto referred to President Samia as “my dear sister,” a phrase that translates to “dada” in Swahili — a term commonly used to express familiarity, respect, and regional solidarity.
The remarks came as the two leaders reaffirmed ties between Kenya and Tanzania.
But Kimambi, in a strongly worded statement, questioned the President’s choice of words and the message it sends in light of ongoing political tensions in Tanzania.
“So Kenya is the most democratic country in East Africa. Wametuacha mbali mno na demokrasia yao, although not perfect, ila ni mfano wa kuigwa na nchi zingine Africa,” she said.
She went on to criticise the display of closeness between the two leaders, linking it to allegations of human rights violations in Tanzania.
“It is shocking to see a sitting Kenyan president affectionately call ‘dada’ a woman who just butchered her own people to hold onto power,” she said.
Kimambi also raised concerns over alleged cases involving Kenyan nationals in Tanzania, accusing Nairobi of failing to respond firmly.
“It is shocking to watch a Kenyan president enable the killing of Tanzanians and remain silent while Kenyans were kidnapped, tortured and raped in Tanzania,” she added.
Her remarks referenced claims of violence against protesters and activists, allegations that remain disputed, with Tanzanian authorities maintaining that they uphold law and order.
Kimambi further questioned the symbolism behind Ruto’s remarks, arguing that such language reflects deeper political alignment.
“After the killing of more than 10,000 protesters, and the kidnapping and rape of Kenyan activists… how can a Kenyan president bring himself to refer to Samia Suluhu as his sister?” she posed.
She also turned her focus to Kenya’s domestic politics, urging voters to consider leadership choices ahead of future elections.
“Kenyans, whatever you do next year, you must vote Ruto out of office and elect a leader who will stand for democracy across East Africa,” she said.