The ruling party’s Ideology, Publicity, and Training Secretary, Kenani Kihongosi, on Saturday, January 17, 2025, hit back at activists and also commented on remarks made by one of the country’s most respected elders, Judge Joseph Sinde Warioba, following reactions to the October 29 protest, the security crackdown, and the killings of citizens.
Responding to a journalist’s first question on the party’s view of Judge Warioba’s comments, Kihongosi did not hold back in expressing the party’s dissatisfaction with the remarks.
“And our Chama Cha Mapinduzi, which is a party of all Tanzanians, does not discuss individuals. We discuss issues and fundamental matters. Therefore, regarding our elder, Elder Warioba, what we can say—or what I can say as the party spokesperson—is this: first, we respect him; but secondly, he should retire properly, just as other retirees have retired properly,” Kihongosi said.
Kihongosi questioned why Warioba spoke to the press immediately after visiting the State House, a visit during which several photos were shared by the State House, even though it was unclear what issues were discussed or the nature of the visit.
In an interview with a Jamhuri Media journalist, Warioba questioned the level of force used during the October 29 protest and argued that the death toll might be even higher than during the Uganda–Tanzania war. Kihongosi reacted strongly to Warioba’s remarks, even suggesting that he had lied.
“What we ask of him is that he retire properly and continue to rest, but without harboring hatred toward the current leaders,” Kihongosi argued.
“This is because he can offer advice and reach the relevant authorities and advise them wisely, rather than going to complain on social media. When a leader complains online every day, it raises many questions,” he continued.
For the past eight years, Warioba has remained one of the retired elder statesmen regarded as a last moral authority of the nation, especially at times when questions surrounding corruption, killings, and abductions remain unanswered or appear to be beyond the reach of current leaders.
Kihongosi also took a moment to criticize activists, especially those based in the diaspora, warning against any campaigns targeting the tourism industry.
“Every time you look at social media, some people are chatting 24 hours a day. What job do these people have? Who is paying them? You end up learning they are getting paid by other people for their agenda,” he said.
“When tourism grows, it benefits our nation. But, surprisingly, some people are defaming our country to ensure they halt the tourism industry,” he continued.
Kihongosi further announced that the party would be touring the country in the coming days to listen to citizens’ concerns and collect issues from the public.
