Opinion: Is it right for former Tanzania PM Edward Lowassa to endorse Uhuru?

Former Tanzania Prime Minister Edward Lowassa photo:courtesy

Former Tanzania Prime Minister Edward Lowassa is a seasoned politician who understands well the politics of East Africa and more so the strenuous relationship that the Jubilee government has had with Tanzania.

His support for President Uhuru Kenyatta won’t improve our relationship with Tanzania, especially if Jubilee wins the election.

 Our neighbours should keep off our politics just as we should keep off theirs for the sake of harmony across the region. President John Magufuli is an ardent supporter of NASA flag-bearer Raila Odinga, but he has not come out openly to endorse his candidature.

The East African Community economic bloc has failed for many years because of the strained relationship between member states.

We should therefore work hard to build this bloc and make it as vibrant as its peers in West Africa and Southern Africa, instead of further dividing these countries. Also, Kenya is a sovereign State, just like the Jubilee government has always insisted.

Why then would someone from another country come out openly to support a candidate in our election? This is tantamount to territorial interference. We are setting a dangerous precedent in East Africa and it is imperative that we realise this before we reach the Rubicon.

- Mr Okowa is Chairman of the Association of Construction Managers of Kenya