A Tanzanian Member of Parliament who previously dismissed Kenya as a country unworthy of emulation has made a surprising U-turn, admitting that Tanzania now has a lot to learn from its neighbor.
Speaking passionately in Parliament, the MP said she now regrets her earlier remarks, acknowledging that recent events have proven Kenya’s democratic maturity and peaceful approach to political issues.
In her own words, she said, “Leo hii nasimama kwa aibu kukiri kwamba tuna mengi ya kujifunza kutoka Kenya. Wale walikuwa wanaandamana mchana pekee na kwa sababu za msingi, leo hii siamini raia wa Tanzania wako radhi kuteketeza nchi kabisa, wakati tunaweza tukazungumza na tukaelewana.”
Her comments come at a time when Tanzania has been witnessing growing public discontent and sporadic demonstrations, with citizens calling for transparency, justice, and economic reforms. Many analysts believe the MP’s admission reflects the realization that Kenya’s structured approach to democracy, where citizens can protest peacefully and still maintain national stability, offers valuable lessons for Tanzania.
Kenyans on social media quickly reacted to the statement, with many celebrating the acknowledgment as proof that Kenya’s democracy — though imperfect — remains one of the most progressive in the region. Others, however, saw it as political damage control, arguing that the MP was merely responding to the growing unrest in her country.
Observers note that Kenya’s model of daytime protests, legal frameworks for demonstrations, and continued dialogue between government and opposition have become examples of controlled political expression in Africa. Tanzania, on the other hand, has been grappling with tensions between citizens and authorities, raising calls for greater openness and civic freedom.
The MP’s confession marks a remarkable shift in tone and could open doors for deeper cooperation between the two East African nations, especially in governance, civic engagement, and human rights.
