Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called on Kenya’s William Ruto to remain firm in enforcing strict measures to manage what she described as growing unrest among young people in the region. Her remarks come amid increasing youth-led calls for accountability and governance reforms in both countries.
Speaking during a joint address at State House in Dar es Salaam, President Suluhu emphasized the need for regional cooperation in addressing youth activism, particularly among Gen Z. She expressed concern over what she termed as rising indiscipline, suggesting that governments in East Africa should take a unified and firm approach in handling protests and dissent. According to her, different nations have unique approaches to democracy, and actions deemed unacceptable in Tanzania would attract legal consequences regardless of an individual’s nationality.
President Suluhu stressed that Kenya and Tanzania should work together in maintaining order, warning against what she described as celebrating disruptive behavior across borders. She urged President Ruto to support a tough stance on youth protests, arguing that such firmness would promote respect for authority and stability within the region.
Her remarks come against the backdrop of increasing youth-led demonstrations in both countries. In Kenya, Gen Z activists staged widespread protests in 2024 opposing proposed tax measures under the Finance Bill. The demonstrations also pushed for transparency, accountability, and the removal of leaders accused of corruption. The pressure from the protests ultimately forced the government to withdraw the controversial bill, marking a significant moment of civic engagement led by young people.
Since then, protests and civic actions have persisted, with tensions expected to rise further as the country approaches the 2027 General Election. President Ruto has previously taken a hardline stance on protests, warning against violence and property destruction during demonstrations.
Tanzania has also experienced youth-led protests, particularly during the disputed October 2025 elections that saw President Suluhu re-elected. The period was marked by reports of unrest, as well as criticism from observers over the handling of protests and alleged human rights concerns.
Both Kenya and Tanzania have faced scrutiny from the international community over their response to protests, with calls for restraint and respect for citizens’ rights. The debate continues to highlight the delicate balance between maintaining order and upholding democratic freedoms.
