Dehumanizing Language in Tanzanian Politics: A Dangerous Precedent

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Words That Wound On May 26, 2025, a post on X by John Heche, sparked outrage across Tanzanian social media.

 The post highlighted a statement by Tauhida Gallos, a Special Seats MP from Mjini-Magharibi, Zanzibar, who allegedly referred to opposition figures like Soka, Kipanya, Mdude, Ben Saanane, and others as "kenge" (Swahili for lizards). 

Her words, as quoted in the image shared by Heche, read: "Vyombo vya Ulizi na Usalama Shughulikeni na Kenge wa Ndani Mmalize"—translating to "Intelligence and security agencies, deal with the internal lizards, finish them." The implication? These individuals, deemed political adversaries, deserve to "disappear" or be "dealt with." 

As a Tanzanian MP from the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, Gallos’ rhetoric isn’t just a personal opinion—it reflects a deeper, systemic issue within Tanzania’s political landscape. Dehumanizing language, as history has shown, is a precursor to violence, oppression, and even genocide. In this blog post, I’ll unpack the significance of her statement, explore the reactions it provoked, and examine what this means for Tanzania’s fragile democracy.

The Context: A History of Political Tensions

Tanzania’s political environment has been increasingly volatile. The CCM, which has ruled since the country’s independence in 1961, faces growing criticism for its authoritarian tactics. A 2024 Reuters report documented the abductions of CHADEMA opposition party officials, with some, like Ben Saanane, still missing. The X thread references Saanane’s father pleading, “Ben is my child, not my goat,” highlighting the human cost of these disappearances. Yet, as Heche notes, Gallos seems to suggest that even if these "lizards" are abducted, their fellow "lizards" shouldn’t dare speak up.

The Danger of Dehumanization: Lessons from History

Dehumanizing language isn’t just rhetoric—it’s a weapon. A 2019 article from Michigan State University’s MSUToday explains how such language has historically preceded atrocities. In Rwanda, Tutsis were called "cockroaches" before the 1994 genocide. During the Holocaust, Jews were labeled "Untermenschen" (subhumans). In Tanzania, calling opposition figures "kenge" strips them of their humanity, making it easier to justify violence or abductions against them.

Gallos’ statement, as interpreted by Heche, implies that these "lizards" don’t deserve the rights of citizens—they’re pests to be eradicated. This rhetoric is particularly chilling given Tanzania’s recent history of political repression. The BBC reported in April 2025 that Tanzania’s main opposition party was banned from standing in elections, with its leader arrested on treason charges. The CCM’s grip on power, once seen as a "benign hegemony," is increasingly maintained through fear and suppression, as noted in an ISS Africa analysis.

Public Reaction: Outrage and Reflection

What This Means for Tanzania’s Future

Gallos’ words aren’t just a one-off comment—they’re a symptom of a broader problem. The CCM, as ISS Africa points out, faces internal and external pressures for reform. Calls for an independent electoral commission, separation of powers, and a reduction in presidential authority have grown louder, yet the party seems committed to maintaining its dominance, even at the cost of democratic principles.

For ordinary Tanzanians, this rhetoric creates a climate of fear. When an MP can openly call for security agencies to "finish" political opponents, what hope is there for free expression or dissent? The continued abductions, as 

A Call to Action: Reclaiming Humanity in Politics

Tanzania stands at a crossroads. The CCM can either heed the calls for reform, as former President Kikwete attempted with his 2010 "Kujivua gamba" rebranding effort, or continue down a path of repression. For citizens, the challenge is to hold leaders accountable, reject dehumanizing language, and demand a political discourse that respects the dignity of all.

As a global community, we must also pay attention. Tanzania’s trajectory affects not just its 60 million citizens but the stability of East Africa. International pressure, as seen in responses to similar crises in Rwanda or Uganda, can push for accountability. Supporting Tanzanian civil society, amplifying the voices of those like John Heche, and advocating for the missing—like Ben Saanane—can make a difference.

 Words Matter

Tauhida Gallos’ statement is a stark reminder that words are not neutral. They can inspire, but they can also destroy. In a country grappling with political abductions, electoral suppression, and growing dissent, calling human beings "kenge" isn’t just offensive—it’s dangerous. As Tanzanians head toward an uncertain future, the hope is that leaders and citizens alike will choose a path of dialogue, reform, and humanity over division and violence. Because if history has taught us anything, it’s that dehumanization is the first step toward a much darker road.