Kikwete Reaction: No Response, Avoids Press
9. (C) On the same day the opposition released the "List of Shame," President Kikwete departed Tanzania for his two and a half week trip to the U.S. Despite public speculation that he might cut his trip short to attend to the growing discord, he remained abroad and did not respond to any allegations. Upon his Oct. 3 return, he uncharacteristically refused to speak to reporters who met him at the airport. He also seemingly disregarded the expectation that he address the allegations against him at a State House press conference, and remained silent.
10. (SBU) On October 11, ten days after his return from New York, President Kikwete addressed the general allegations of corruption (although not those specifically leveled against him). Speaking at a church fundraiser, he warned the Tanzanian people, and especially politicians, against "turning themselves into spies, investigators, prosecutors, and judges," claiming that this would lead the country toward instability. Kikwete stated that he was personally taking action against corruption in Tanzania, including corruption in his party, and that each allegation of corruption would be thoroughly investigated in accordance with Tanzanian law. (Note: Three CCM members of parliament have been turned over to be investigated by the PCCB for their involvement in corrupt practices during recent internal CCM party elections.