Tanzanian actress and former Miss Tanzania Wema Sepetu has sparked a heated debate online after sharing a message of support for President Samia Suluhu Hassan. The post was shared on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at a time when the country is reportedly mourning citizens who died during recent demonstrations.
Wema Sepetu’s post, shared on social media, expressed deep admiration and prayers for the Head of State. She wrote:
“Number Moja wetu… Allah akubarik na akupe nguvu na ujasiri… ALLAH HUMMA AMEEN YARAB. Mama Yangu Mama… Mama Samia Mama.”
The message immediately drew mixed reactions and intense criticism for being insensitive to the current national mood.
The actress’s message quickly prompted responses from other prominent figures, highlighting the sensitivity of the issue.
Kenyan actress Jacky Vike popularly known as Awinja posted a strong condemnation of the situation and the perceived silence of others:
“Smh… HE WHO ALLOWS OPPRESSION SHARES THE CRIME!!!”
she also extended her condolences to the affected families, expressing solidarity with the victims, stating: “My condolences to the families that lost their loved ones. Poleni sana, may all the heroes who died fighting for Tanzania rest in peace.”
Radio host Alex Mwakideu directly questioned Wema’s mindfulness of her audience and the nation’s situation. He asked: “Jamani Wema, hivi umesahau kwamba uko na ufuasi wako mkubwa tu unaoomboleza kwa sasa?”
Wema Sepetu’s choice of words, especially calling President Samia “Mama Yangu Mama”, has been interpreted by some as a strong, personal statement of support, regardless of the national tensions.
The incident underscores how meticulously public figures are scrutinised during moments of national crisis. Many online users have urged Wema to show more empathy and awareness of the pain citizens are currently experiencing.
As of now, the actress has not issued a follow-up statement addressing the substantial backlash. Her post continues to be a point of national debate over whether it was a genuine expression of loyalty or a severe lapse in judgement regarding timing.
