A section of Muslim clerics in Mombasa have strongly rebuked members of Kenya’s Generation Z for launching online attacks against Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu, warning that such actions risk damaging the long-standing cordial relationship between the two neighbouring nations.
The outrage follows disparaging AI-generated depictions and derogatory online commentary targeting President Samia, after she accused Kenyan activists of attempting to destabilise Tanzania. The attacks sparked widespread concern, particularly among religious leaders advocating for cross-border peace and mutual respect.
Led by Sheikh Juma Ngao, the chair of the Kenya Muslim National Advisory Council (Kemnac), the clerics emphasized the importance of upholding diplomatic and cultural ties. “Tanzania is a sovereign state. We cannot take our bad manners to our peaceful neighbouring country,” Sheikh Ngao stated during a press briefing in Mombasa.
Ngao highlighted Kenya’s turbulent history, citing episodes such as the 1982 coup attempt, the 1992 and 1997 election unrest, the 2007 post-election violence, and the recent June 2024 protests where Gen Z stormed Parliament. He argued that these incidents show Kenya’s own struggles with peace and stability, making it unfit to lecture Tanzania on such matters.
“Unlike Kenya, Tanzania has maintained peace and produced presidents from minority communities. We must respect that and not insult their leadership,” he said, adding that Kenya should learn from Tanzania’s civil political culture.
While acknowledging the youth’s role in activism, Ngao cautioned against excessive and disrespectful behaviour, urging for discipline and decorum. “Discipline is the mother of all success,” he remarked.
Kemnac vice chair Sheikh Abubakar Amin echoed similar sentiments, lamenting the embarrassment Kenyans now face in Tanzania due to Gen Z’s actions. “Mama Samia is not just a president—she is a mother and a wife. We must be sensitive to that,” he said.
The clerics called on parents, educators, and religious leaders to take a more active role in instilling moral values in the younger generation, warning that public insults in Tanzania are criminal offences and not tolerated.
Their message was clear: respect, not ridicule, should guide cross-border dialogue.
