Kikwete unhappy with distortion of his remarks on Nyerere legacy

Dar es Salaam. Former President of Tanzania Jakaya Kikwete says he is disappointed at what he describes as distortion of remarks he made recently at a forum to remember Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.

In a statement issued Thursday, October 10, 2019 by his office in Dar es Salaam, Mr Kikwete said some individuals have taken to interpret his speech and insinuate that he was describing the current leadership or individuals.

“There are other people who even dared to create controversial words which he didn’t say, especially those who alleged the former president was targeting the current administration,” reads a part of the statement.

Kikwete’s office pointed out that the former President only shared his personal experience in relation to the symposium’s theme which was on leadership, ethics, solidarity and peace. He delivered his speech at the symposium to commemorate the life of Tanzania’s founding president.

Kikwete recalled in his address that Mwalimu Nyerere was a down to earth leader who did not look down upon those he led and listened to all leaders irrespective of their position. He also said the founding father did not impose his position and did not evoke fear, said Kikwete referencing to people who “mwambafy” themselves, a character he said, of one needlessly seeking to have their authority felt. 

His speech attracted prominent coverage on mainstream media and has been part of the debate on social media for the last few days as members of the public sought to explain their respective understanding. 

It appears that Kikwete was not pleased with the turn of events as most people used his analogy to reflect, largely on the political environment in the country.

But his personal secretary said in the statement: “He never talked of someone else except Mwalimu Nyerere. Again, he never compared Mwalimu Nyerere’s administration with his successor’s as he never mentioned anyone’s name in his speech.”

He said the former president expected to be challenged personally on his remarks at the forum and not otherwise.

“Mr Kikwete has encouraged people who have different views to come out in public and express their opinions instead of hiding in his shadow,” said the statement.