Zimbabwean president Emmerson Mnangagwa has congratulated Tanzanian president Samia Hassan on her election victory.
At the same time, Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema has departed Lusaka for Dodoma to attend her inauguration – a ceremony being held amid mounting controversy over Tanzania’s highly contested polls.
In a letter dated 2 November, Mnangagwa hailed Hassan’s victory in the 29 October general election, describing it as “a reflection of the trust and confidence that the people of Tanzania have in your visionary leadership”.
He pledged to strengthen the “bonds of friendship and solidarity” between Zimbabwe and Tanzania, reaffirming the two nations’ historic ties as former liberation allies.
Meanwhile, Hichilema announced his departure early Monday, writing on Facebook: “Good morning, fellow citizens. We have left for the United Republic of Tanzania to attend the inauguration of that country’s president-elect, Samia Hassan.
“Zambia and Tanzania enjoy a historical relationship in many sectors, dating back to pre-independence days. We thank you for your usual prayers as we travel to attend this important ceremony.”
Hichilema’s presence at the ceremony underscores the delicate balance between diplomatic solidarity and democratic principles in southern Africa.
Widely viewed as one of the region’s reformist leaders, Hichilema’s attendance at Hassan’s inauguration has drawn attention because of the contested nature of the election.
Tanzania’s electoral commission has declared Hassan the winner with an overwhelming 98% of the vote, a result the opposition and rights groups have rejected as deeply flawed. The opposition Chadema party says its leader, Tundu Lissu, was arrested and charged with treason ahead of the vote, while reports of media censorship, internet blackouts, and violent crackdowns on protesters have prompted international concern.
Several people have reportedly been killed in post-election unrest, according to the United Nations, while Tanzanian authorities have defended the polls as free and fair.
Analysts say Mnangagwa’s warm tone and Hichilema’s participation both highlight a pattern of regional diplomacy in which African leaders publicly endorse election outcomes in the name of stability, even when democratic processes are under scrutiny.
“Mnangagwa’s letter is a gesture of solidarity rooted in liberation movement politics,” a Harare-based analyst says.
“It’s also a signal that regional unity often takes precedence over questions of electoral legitimacy.”
The inauguration, set to take place at Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma, is expected to draw several African heads of state. Despite the controversy, Hassan is poised to begin a new term as Tanzania’s president.
For Harare and Lusaka, the moment underscores both countries’ longstanding ties with Tanzania — from the Tazara Railway built in the 1970s to ongoing cooperation in trade and energy.
But it also raises deeper questions about the region’s stance on democracy and accountability, especially as southern Africa grapples with its own political transitions. – IOL News
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
