Wema Sepetu posted a message praising President Samia Suluhu amid national mourning over recent protest-related deaths. Her post drew criticism from public figures and social media users, who deemed it ill-timed and insensitive.
On Sunday, November 9, 2025, Wema shared a message expressing admiration and prayers for the Tanzanian President. She wrote:
“Number Moja wetu… Allah akubarik na akupe nguvu na ujasiri… ALLAH HUMMA AMEEN YARAB. Mama Yangu Mama… Mama Samia Mama.”
The post immediately sparked mixed reactions online, with many interpreting it as inappropriate given the ongoing national grief over protest-related deaths.
Jacky Vike, a Kenyan actress, criticised the post strongly:
“Smh… HE WHO ALLOWS OPPRESSION SHARES THE CRIME!!! My condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. Poleni sana, may all the heroes who died fighting for Tanzania rest in peace.”
Alex Mwakideu, Tanzanian radio host, urged Wema to be mindful of her audience and the nation’s mood:
“Jamani Wema, hivi umesahau kwamba uko na ufuasi wako mkubwa tu unaoomboleza kwa sasa?”
Many social media users echoed these sentiments, highlighting how influential public figures must balance personal expression with public sensitivity during national crises.
Wema, a former Miss Tanzania and one of the country’s most recognised actresses, has not yet responded to the criticism. Some observers interpret her post as a display of loyalty to the President, while others see it as a misstep in timing and tone.
The incident underscores the scrutiny public figures face, particularly during sensitive moments affecting citizens’ lives.
