"I fear for the worst to happen" - Zitto Kabwe talks to EAH about Tanzania's Covid-19 crisis
ACT Leader Ziko Kabwe (Photo: Wikipedia)
This week, news broke from Tanzania that victims of Covid-19 were being buried in the dead of night, under strict security, raising alarms that the country’s government is trying to cover up the impact of the global pandemic. The situation became even more bizarre when labs in the country returned positive tests for Covid-19 on several non-human subjects, including a goat and a pawpaw fruit.
To help shed some light on what’s going on, the East African Herald spoke with Tanzanian opposition leader Zitto Kabwe. Mr Kabwe is the leader of the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT): the largest party in Zanzibar and the second largest opposition party on the mainland. He previously served as an MP for Kigoma North constituency between 2005 - 2015 and is expected to stand as a presidential candidate in October’s 2020 elections.
EAH: You’ve spoken before about the need for transparency in Tanzania’s approach to the Covid-19 pandemic. What do you feel is the most important thing the government can do to improve its approach?
ZK: The primary response from the Government of Tanzania on the COVID-19 pandemic has been underwhelming, particular in contrast with its neighbours. There is a clear lack of transparency regarding data, the response is uncoordinated and lacking leadership from the executive. Our party, ACT-Wazalendo considers both the COVID-19 pandemic and the lackluster response from the government as national crises. Hence, ACT-Wazalendo sees its role as two pronged - firstly, to work with citizens and their communities to prevent further spread of the virus and to protect the most vulnerable, and secondly to hold the government to account for its handling of the crisis.
Therefore the government should completely change its approach and become more pro-active, transparent and allow scientists to lead the response. What is critical now is the end of gatherings. This is the most dangerous thing happening. Restrictions must be applied to curb the spread of the disease
EAH: Are you concerned that the government might be covering up the true death count?
ZK: Of course. Death count reported is a massive cover up. Estimates from medical doctors across the country put the number between 200-300 deaths while the government says only 16 have died.
EAH: The government has received plenty of criticism for allowing churches to remain open during the pandemic and for ordering a so-called herbal cure from Madagascar. Are you worried about the role of superstition in tackling this virus?
ZK: Yes. I always ask the authorities to allow science to guide us.
EAH: You recently defended Nyambura Moremi, the director of a laboratory which returned positive Covid-19 test results on several non-human test subjects. Who do you believe is to blame for the dodgy tests?
There are no dodgy tests. I believe President Magufuli lied to the country. It is inconceivable what the President said about tests. And Africa CDC has rebuked those views too. They said Tanzania test kits are right.
EAH: You recently defied a government order to leave Dar Es Salaam in order to stay home with your wife and children. How are you protecting yourself from the virus and what advice do you have for other residents?
ZK: I stay home. I work from home. When necessary I wear mask going out and keep away from people. I even released a hit song on measures to take.
EAH: Finally, do you feel that the current measures against Covid-19 in Tanzania are enough?
ZK: As I said in the first question not at all. Government first was in denial, then delusional. I fear for the worst to happen.