Samia Suluhu Hassan: Tanzania’s Discreet but Ruthless President
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania’s first female head of state, has transformed from a soft-spoken politician into a powerful leader accused of ruling with an iron fist. Once viewed as a symbol of reform, Samia Suluhu Hassan is now under fire for tightening control ahead of the country’s general elections.
From Clerk to Commander-in-Chief
Born on January 27, 1960, in Zanzibar, Hassan began her career humbly as a government clerk before becoming a development officer and project manager for the UN World Food Programme. She joined politics in 2000, winning a seat in the Zanzibar House of Representatives, where she served as minister for youth, women, children, tourism, and trade.
Her national rise came in 2010 when she joined Tanzania’s National Assembly. Then-president Jakaya Kikwete appointed her minister of state for union affairs, setting the stage for her to become John Magufuli’s running mate in 2015. The two were re-elected in 2020, although the vote was criticized by observers for alleged irregularities.
From Hope to Hardline Rule
After Magufuli’s death in March 2021, Hassan took office as president, marking a historic moment for Tanzania and Africa. Her calm tone and gentle demeanor offered a striking contrast to Magufuli’s fiery leadership style. Initially, she lifted bans on opposition rallies and reopened media spaces, sparking optimism for democratic renewal.
However, critics now claim she has adopted authoritarian tactics similar to her predecessor. Amnesty International reports “enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings” ahead of the 2025 election. Analysts suggest Hassan’s strict measures stem from political survival instincts in a patriarchal and divided party environment.
Navigating Power Struggles
Insiders reveal that Hassan inherited a government dominated by Magufuli loyalists who tried to undermine her authority. Facing distrust and pressure, she has worked to eliminate dissent and solidify her power within Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Tanzania’s ruling party.
A former advisor noted, “She believes firm control is necessary to prove her strength as a woman leader in a male-dominated political system.” This strategy, while controversial, has secured her dominance within both party and government structures.
A Legacy Still in the Making
Despite criticism, Hassan remains popular among supporters who praise her for improving Tanzania’s image abroad and stabilizing the economy. Her focus on infrastructure, tourism, and women’s empowerment continues to resonate domestically. Yet, her growing intolerance for opposition raises questions about the future of Tanzanian democracy.
As the nation prepares for elections, Samia Suluhu Hassan stands at a crossroads — balancing her legacy between reformist ambitions and the harsh realities of political control.
