Ali Kiba Apologizes to Tanzanians After Backing President Samia in Disputed Election

DAR ES SALAAM – In a move that underscores the deep political divisions in Tanzania, music icon Ali Kiba has issued a heartfelt public apology to his fellow citizens for his endorsement of President Samia Suluhu Hassan during the country’s contentious General Elections.

The apology was posted to the singer’s Instagram Stories on the evening of Wednesday, November 6th, 2025. In a message written in Swahili, Kiba stated, “Poleni ndugu zangu Watanzania, na ninawaomba msamaha kwa kuwa kwaza,” which translates to, “My fellow Tanzanians, I am sorry, and I ask for your forgiveness for offending you.”

This public act of contrition comes amid a turbulent period following the October 29th vote. The election was widely criticized by international observers, including the African Union, which stated the polls “failed to meet democratic standards.” The AU mission cited numerous irregularities, including widespread ballot stuffing, a lack of proper voter identification checks, and a controversial nationwide internet shutdown.

The post-election environment has been marked by widespread protests and a severe government crackdown. According to reports from Human Rights Watch, the ensuing violence has led to the deaths of over 1,000 people.

Celebrity Endorsements Face Fierce Backlash

In the weeks leading up to the election, a cadre of Tanzania’s most famous artists, including Ali Kiba, had publicly thrown their support behind President Samia. However, the disputed outcome and subsequent unrest have triggered a massive wave of public anger directed at these celebrities, who are now seen by many as complicit in a flawed and violent process.

Kiba is not the only star facing the public’s wrath. Other high-profile endorsers have also taken steps to distance themselves.

• Superstar Diamond Platnumz has quietly scrubbed his social media accounts of pro-government content posted during the campaign.

• Rapper Billnass went a step further, deactivating his social media profiles altogether to avoid the backlash.

While President Samia Suluhu Hassan was officially sworn in as President-elect on November 3rd, the celebrities who supported her campaign continue to bear the brunt of public outrage. Ali Kiba’s public apology is the most direct response yet from a figure within the entertainment industry, highlighting the intense pressure and shifting public sentiment in the wake of the controversial polls.