Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned remarks attributed to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu,describing them as “abhorrent” and a threat to democratic values in East Africa.
In a strongly worded statement, Maraga said he was deeply disturbed by reports that Suluhu made the comments during a joint appearance with Kenyan President William Ruto at Tanzania’s National Assembly.
“These remarks are abhorrent,” Maraga said. Concerns over regional cooperation
Maraga pointed to reports that the two leaders discussed coordinated action against Gen Z activists in both Kenya and Tanzania, allegedly using the phrase “piga mikwaju”.
He warned that such sentiments risk undermining the rule of law and shrinking civic space across the region.
“The axis of tyranny that Presidents Suluhu and Ruto are constructing threatens to return our region to autocracy.”
Maraga recalled his time in office, saying he had worked closely with Tanzanian judicial counterparts to strengthen justice systems within the East African Community. He said those efforts could be eroded if dissent is suppressed. Human rights concerns remain unresolved.
The former Chief Justice linked the controversy to ongoing accountability concerns in Tanzania following the 29 October 2025 general elections.
According to findings from a commission of inquiry received by President Suluhu, more than 518 people were killed
during and after the polls, most of them from gunshot wounds.
To date, Maraga noted, no one has been held accountable.
“They come barely a week after President Suluhu received the report… To date, not a single person has been held accountable.” Call for regional vigilance.
Maraga urged citizens across East Africa to speak out against actions that may weaken democratic institutions.
He referenced his own appearance in Dar es Salaam on 19 May 2025, where he stood in solidarity with Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
“Our East African Jumuiya cannot advance while leaders suppress dissent and trample on the basic rights of our people.” Context Around Their Relationship
