Tanzania President John Pombe Magufuli, whose government has been accused of repeated violations of LGBT people’s rights, today (Nov. 5) was sworn in for another term in office.
President John Magufuli and Vice President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the swearing- in ceremony today. (Ippmedia photo)
By Kikonyogo Kivumbi
He took the oath of office today in the administrative capital, Dodoma.
Local media is reporting that this is the first time a Tanzanian president has been sworn in from the new capital, Dodoma City, which was built to replace the historic capital, Dar es Salaam. Magufuli’s new term ends in 2025.
“I, John Pombe Joseph Magufuli, do solemnly swear that I will execute my duties as the president of the United Republic of Tanzania, with integrity to fulfill the responsibilities of my roles diligently…,” he said in Swahili.
LGBT repression during his administration
The international advocacy group Human Rights Watch recently reported on “the Tanzanian government’s repression of LGBT people and activism, including arbitrary arrests and the use of forced anal exams.”
Upon taking the oath, Magufuli who was cheered on by his supporters held up a ceremonial spear and shield to signify the beginning of his presidency.
President Magufuli (L) during the swearing-in today. (CCM media photo)
Other other dignitaries who attended the swearing-in included: Former Tanzanian Presidents Ali Hassan Mwinyi and Jakaya Kikwete, Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Burundi Prime Minister Alaine Bunyoni, Botswana VP Slumber Tsogwane, Mozambique Prime Minister Carlos Agostinho do Rosário and Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi..
Tanzania’s National Electoral Commission declared incumbent Magufuli the winner of last week’s election with 12.5 million votes (84 percent) against 1.9 million (13 percent) for his main challenger, Tundu Lissu from the leading opposition party, Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo.
A victorious Magufuli displays the shield and spear immediately after swearing in. (Maelezo photo)
Kikonyogo Kivumbi, the author of this article, is the executive director of the Uganda Health and Science Press Association.
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