“As we collectively reflect on the complex challenges in Tanzania, I would like to engage Nigerian women by posing a few critical questions: How has President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s tenure affected your lives, particularly in light of the distressing reports and visual evidence of bodies in the streets? What are your thoughts on the current state of female leadership in our nation? Do you still believe in the ability of women to lead us effectively? Additionally, do you view these issues as personal challenges that affect you individually, or do you see them as part of a larger, systemic struggle that calls for solidarity and collective action?”
When Samia Suluhu Hassan was inaugurated as Tanzania’s first female president in March 2021, it was a moment of profound joy not just for the nation but for the entire continent of Africa. Her rise to the presidency not only represented a breakthrough in gender representation within African politics but also seemed to signal a transformative shift away from an era marked by oppression, fear, and muted voices. Following the unexpected passing of her predecessor, John Magufuli, many Tanzanians viewed Samia Hassan as a patriot and a champion of women’s empowerment upon her ascension to the highest political office in East Africa. Women’s groups and governments, both regionally and globally, celebrated her appointment, expressing a renewed sense of hope, particularly due to her emphasis on open dialogue and commitment to human rights. Samia Hassan captured the hearts of many Tanzanians with her philosophy of reconciliation, resilience, reforms, and rebuilding. Her leadership was seen as a pivotal moment for political reform, economic recovery, and greater engagement with civil society, thus laying the groundwork for a more transparent and inclusive governance. As the world watched, a palpable sense of anticipation surrounded her potential to guide the country’s trajectory in the years ahead.
At the onset of her presidency, Samia Hassan appeared to be making significant strides toward meeting the high expectations set by both her supporters and critics. She took notable actions by reopening newspapers that had been previously banned, signaling a willingness to restore freedom of the press. She initiated the release of numerous political prisoners, allowing voices that had been silenced under her predecessor to be heard once again. Her administration extended invitations to opposition leaders in exile, encouraging them to return to Tanzania’s political landscape. Her gestures toward national reconciliation received widespread admiration, and many observers felt a renewed sense of hope as Tanzania appeared to be rediscovering its democratic rhythm and moving away from the repressive practices of the past. However, as the months transitioned into years, what initially began as a wave of optimism surrounding President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration gradually gave way to a growing sense of concern among different factions within Tanzania. This shift was particularly pronounced among critics who voiced their apprehensions regarding her approach to governance. Many argued that Samia’s administration appeared to be subtly, yet effectively, reconstructing the mechanisms of control that had characterized prior regimes, fostering an atmosphere reminiscent of soft authoritarianism.
Under this model, she became a sophisticated character. Amnesty International documented alarming instances of “widespread and systematic violations” of human rights, highlighting severe concerns such as enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, human rights abuses, torture, unlawful killings, and significant restrictions on freedoms of movement, expression, and peaceful assembly. Compounding these concerns, it was noted that President Samia employed strategic methods for controlling information and public discourse. A notable incident involved the banning of three leading newspapers in Tanzania that had published an animation perceived as critical of her administration. Furthermore, in a controversial decision made just one week before the country’s crucial general election, Samia officially banned access to X (formerly Twitter) for the general public. This action effectively granted the platform’s use to government officials and to the President herself. As a result, an increasing number of individuals are exploring the connection between ineffective leadership and traditional gender roles. This examination has prompted a deeper analysis of the societal tendency to associate poor leadership with women. It is crucial to recognize that the characteristics and skills related to ineffective leadership are not confined to any one gender; they are present in individuals of all gender identities.
For example, in American history, James Buchanan is often cited as one of the least effective presidents. His inability to address the mounting tensions between the North and South is seen as a critical factor that contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War. His administration struggled to manage the deepening divisions over slavery, failing to implement meaningful policies that could have mitigated the conflict. The Holocaust, a catastrophic event of the 20th century, resulted in the deaths of approximately 6 million Jews and millions of others deemed undesirable by the Nazi regime. This atrocity was orchestrated by Adolf Hitler, who implemented a systematic genocide fueled by a toxic ideology of racial supremacy. The ramifications of this event continue to shape discussions around human rights and the responsibilities of leaders. Similarly, the Rwandan Genocide stands as a tragic example of how men can wield power to devastating effect. In 1994, political leaders incited violence that led to the deaths of around 1 million Tutsi and moderate Hutu civilians within a span of 100 days. The men in power played a crucial role in manipulating ethnic tensions for political gain, which was pivotal in orchestrating this catastrophic event.
The transatlantic Slave Trade, a horrific chapter in global history, was initiated, funded, and fiercely defended by men in positions of authority. This brutal practice not only resulted in unimaginable suffering for millions of enslaved individuals but also sowed the seeds for conflict and strife that led to the American Civil War. In more recent history, figures such as Idi Amin, who ruled Uganda with an iron fist, are remembered for severe human rights abuses that resulted in the deaths of an estimated 500,000 people. Similarly, Omar al-Bashir, the former President of Sudan, oversaw a brutal campaign of genocide in Darfur, which led to the deaths and displacement of millions. Jean-Bedel Bokassa, a self-declared emperor of the Central African Republic, is notorious for his tyrannical rule and the horrifying incident in which he ordered the execution of 100 schoolchildren who refused to wear uniforms adorned with his image. Another notorious leader, Pol Pot, was responsible for the deaths of approximately 2 million Cambodians during the Khmer Rouge regime, driven by a radical vision of agrarian socialism that led to widespread purges and famine. Even today, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues, with ongoing massacres led by men in power, highlighting the persistent nature of these tragedies.
In the Arab world, leaders such as Bashar al-Assad have been implicated in severe atrocities against his own people. His regime has been responsible for countless civilian deaths during the Syrian Civil War, employing chemical weapons and other forms of violence to suppress dissent. Throughout history, there has been a troubling pattern of men wielding power to commit heinous acts, yet these individuals are rarely collectively held accountable for the actions of their gender. In stark contrast, when a woman in a leadership position fails to perform effectively or engages in misconduct, her actions often lead to a broader scrutiny of women in leadership roles, affecting societal perceptions on a larger scale. This discrepancy raises questions about gender bias and the collective responsibility attributed to leaders based on their gender.
The case of Samia represents a broader pattern observed throughout history, where women in positions of power have sometimes misused their influence in grave ways. One notable example is Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, who, during the Emergency period in the 1970s, implemented controversial mass sterilization programs that led to significant human rights violations and the forced sterilization of millions of people. Similarly, Isabel Perón, who served as the President of Argentina in the 1970s, was linked to a repressive regime notorious for its human rights abuses, including the establishment of death squads that targeted political dissidents. Her tenure was marked by violence and oppression, highlighting how women can wield power in contexts fraught with turmoil. Another significant figure is Grace Mugabe, the former First Lady of Zimbabwe, who was known for her extravagant lifestyle and her controversial political influence, particularly during her husband, Robert Mugabe’s, long rule. Her actions often reflected a pattern of self-interest, corruption, and violence against opponents.
Historical figures like Marie Antoinette have also left an indelible mark on history, particularly during the French Revolution. Accused of extravagance and disconnectedness from the struggles of the ordinary people, she became a symbol of the excesses of monarchy and elitism, which fueled revolutionary sentiments. Aung San Suu Kyi, once celebrated as a symbol of democracy and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, had her reputation severely tarnished when she failed to address the Rohingya crisis. Despite her previous advocacy for human rights, she oversaw a brutal military campaign that led to the genocide of the Rohingya people in Myanmar, raising critical questions about the complexities of leadership and moral accountability. On home soil, Diezani Alison-Madueke has emerged as a central figure in a series of serious allegations concerning power abuse and profound corruption. During his tenure as the Minister of Petroleum Resources (2010-2015), Alison-Madueke was accused of accepting substantial bribes in exchange for awarding lucrative oil and gas contracts, as well as indulging in extravagant luxury holidays. She allegedly utilized multiple properties in London for personal benefit linked to these corrupt practices. In 2023, the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) formally charged her with bribery offenses, igniting international attention toward her case. Investigative efforts by various international organizations have also led to the recovery of a substantial amount of assets linked to her alleged corrupt activities, underscoring the severity and scope of the allegations against her.
Stella Oduah, who formerly served as Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, also became embroiled in a major corruption scandal that raised eyebrows and questioned her leadership. She was accused of improperly using her authority to compel the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, an agency under her ministry, to purchase two luxury bulletproof BMW cars for her personal use at a staggering cost of N255 million. This scandal not only brought to light concerns over the misuse of government resources but also raised questions about accountability. Although she faced significant public backlash and was eventually dismissed from her ministerial post, reports indicated that several other officials implicated in the wrongdoing were not prosecuted at that time, leaving a shadow over the effectiveness of the country’s anti-corruption measures. In early 2024, newly appointed ministers Beta Edu and Sadiya Farouq in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Poverty Alleviation found themselves caught in their own corruption scandals. This ministers, responsible for vulnerable populations across Nigeria, came under scrutiny for allegations of mismanagement and the diversion of funds earmarked explicitly for critical social intervention programs. Amid these serious accusations, President Bola Tinubu suspended Beta Edu, as well as Sadiya Farouq. Both suspensions were enacted pending investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which are expected to delve deeply into the operations of the ministers during their tenures.
Other instances of abuse of power among women in leadership positions include Patricia Etteh, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives. She faced significant allegations in 2007 concerning contract splitting and various other financial improprieties. Her tenure illuminated critical issues related to governance and ethical standards in public office. Ghaji Rahila, an Assistant Chief Accountant at the National Boundary Commission, is currently undergoing trial for abuse of office, reflecting a broader narrative of accountability in governmental roles. Similarly, Nkem Apollonia Mba, the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, is also facing legal proceedings for alleged abuse of her office, further emphasizing the pressing need for systemic reforms to combat corruption and uphold transparency in Nigeria’s public sector. These examples illustrate that the misuse of power is not confined to a singular gender and that women, much like their male counterparts, have historically played roles that can result in significant social and political consequences. The list continues, reminding us that history is rich with lessons about the impact of leadership, regardless of gender.
I am a passionate advocate for effective leadership, irrespective of gender. I take particular pride in the rise of women to top positions of authority. This perspective is rooted in my experiences growing up in a patriarchal society, where I gained a deep understanding of the significant challenges women often face on their paths to success. From societal expectations and biases to obstacles in professional environments, I have witnessed firsthand the resilience and determination of women to overcome these hurdles and thrive. Supporting and celebrating women’s advancement in leadership roles transcends gender equality; it acknowledges the untapped potential that diverse leadership brings to organizations and communities. When women succeed, it broadens the possibilities for everyone and cultivates a richer, more inclusive environment for all. While it is undoubtedly significant to see a woman in a position of power, this representation alone does not ensure that the policies or actions taken will effectively advance feminist ideals. A woman in leadership can serve as a powerful symbol of progress and inspire future generations; however, without a genuine commitment to implementing changes that address issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and workplace equity, the true potential of such representation may remain unfulfilled. Therefore, representation must be coupled with a strong agenda for social justice to ensure that progress is both meaningful and impactful.
Today, I find myself profoundly disappointed with Samia Hassan’s leadership in Tanzania, especially given the current crisis the country is facing. I had high hopes for her administration and genuinely believed she would succeed. However, I now wonder if my expectations were too elevated, stemming from my long-standing faith in the potential of women in leadership roles. The recent imagery of bodies in the streets during this time of turmoil has been particularly distressing; it resonates deeply with me, especially coming from a female leader whose position embodies the weight of representation. As we collectively reflect on the complex challenges in Tanzania, I would like to engage Nigerian women by posing a few critical questions: How has President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s tenure affected your lives, particularly in light of the distressing reports and visual evidence of bodies in the streets? What are your thoughts on the current state of female leadership in our nation? Do you still believe in the ability of women to lead us effectively? Additionally, do you view these issues as personal challenges that affect you individually, or do you see them as part of a larger, systemic struggle that calls for solidarity and collective action? Your insights on these questions are of immense value as we pause to reflect on the significance of women’s leadership in Nigeria. By deepening our understanding of the various dimensions of this issue, we can better appreciate the impact women leaders have on society, the challenges they encounter, and the progress that has been made. Your perspectives will significantly enhance our dialogue on further empowering women’s voices and promoting their leadership roles across various sectors in Nigeria.
Rev. Ma, S. J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He currently writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
