Kagame, Ruto Visits Shame Political Brokers in East Africa – Mbeto

By Our Correspondent, Zanzibar

The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has described the recent visits by the Presidents of Rwanda and Kenya to Tanzania as a clear response to what it called “political brokers” and opportunistic activists spreading misleading narratives in East Africa.

CCM has therefore urged East Africans to ignore unfounded rumors claiming that countries within the East African Community (EAC) have poor diplomatic relations.

The remarks were made by the Secretary of the Zanzibar Special NEC Committee responsible for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Khamis Mbeto Khamis, at his office in Kisiwandui, Zanzibar.

Mbeto spoke shortly after the visits by the two leaders, saying Tanzania’s regional and international diplomatic relations remain strong and will not be weakened.

He said some politicians and activists in East Africa, whom he described as lacking adequate understanding of leadership, politics and governance, have been spreading negative information alleging that Tanzania has strained relations with neighboring countries.

According to Mbeto, Tanzania will continue to uphold principles of leadership, rule of law and diplomatic protocols while respecting regional and international norms aimed at preserving unity and cooperation.

“Where are those troublesome politicians and activists who have been spreading hatred, poison and lies? The visits by President Paul Kagame and President Dr. William Ruto have embarrassed political brokers and rumor mongers in East Africa,” said Mbeto.

The CCM publicity secretary further stated that Tanzania, together with its neighbors, development partners, investors, the EAC, regional blocs and international organizations, will continue strengthening cooperation without doubt or hesitation.

“Our nations must focus on the future and establish economic projects that will expand employment and investment opportunities. We would like to see stronger communication, transport and trade sectors. Tanzania will never be shaken by the noise of rumor spreaders,” he added.

Mbeto also noted that Tanzania has for many years maintained cooperation with all neighboring countries, stressing that attempts aimed at creating division and conflict should be stopped early through collective efforts.

“We should not wait until danger escalates before taking action. Let us protect our borders with one voice and united strength. Incitement and divisive propaganda must be controlled so they do not weaken unity, peace and development,” he emphasized.

Speaking on democracy, transparency and good governance, Mbeto said citizens have been given broad opportunities to participate in democracy that respects discipline, ethics and the rule of law.

“Our governments have created broad space for participatory democracy, not reckless democracy. Our governments respect the law and social freedoms within the limits provided by the constitution and legal frameworks,” Mbeto said.