A statement circulating online claiming that former U.S. President Donald Trump warned Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan to “allow Tanzanians to make their choices independently, or we will be forced to step in and restore order” has been found to be false and unverified.
According to fact-checks and open-source reports, there is no record of Donald Trump or any representative linked to his political or diplomatic network issuing such a statement. The claim, which has been widely shared on social media, appears to be part of misinformation spreading amid heightened political tension in Tanzania.
Trump, who has been out of office since January 2021, currently holds no official diplomatic position that would authorize him to make or convey warnings to foreign governments. Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania and the U.S. State Department have made no such communication to President Samia Suluhu’s government.
In contrast, President Samia recently warned foreign diplomats and activists against meddling in Tanzania’s internal affairs, insisting that her administration values sovereignty and stability. Her statement came in response to international organizations calling for restraint and dialogue amid rising public discontent and protests.
Analysts believe the fake Trump statement was likely designed to stir anti-government sentiment or to suggest growing international concern over Tanzania’s political situation. Social media users have been urged to verify information before sharing, especially when it involves diplomatic or political claims that could heighten tensions.
Fact-checkers emphasize that disinformation spreads fastest during moments of political uncertainty, and such false narratives can harm diplomatic relations or fuel unnecessary fear among citizens.
There is no credible evidence that Donald Trump or his supposed diplomats issued a warning to President Samia Suluhu. The viral quote is fabricated, and Tanzanians are advised to rely only on official communications and trusted news sources for updates on international and political affairs.
