Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has named a “troublesome” lion after one of many nation’s opposition leaders.
President Samia was visiting the Tanzania Wildlife Authority (TAWA) on Monday when she was launched to the unruly lion by officers.
“Does that lion have a reputation?” requested President Samia. “If not, identify him Tundu Lissu.”
Mr Lissu is the chief of the primary opposition occasion Chadema. He was arrested earlier this yr for trying to carry a youth rally, which police say was supposed to incite violence.
“It’s as a result of he’s at all times unsettled,” Ms Samia stated as she gave the lion its new identify.
So what does Mr Lissu make of his namesake?
It appears he is taking it in his stride.
“I come from a household of heroes,” he instructed native media.
“My great-grandfather killed a lion that attacked him and his cattle,” he stated.
Mr Lissu is a notable authorities critic and survived a gun assault in 2017. His automotive was sprayed with over 17 bullets, however he escaped with heavy accidents. The perpetrators had been by no means discovered.
Mr Lissu ran for workplace in 2020, however misplaced in opposition to the late John Magufuli.
Ms Samia, who was then the vice-president, turned chief in 2021 after Mr Magufuli died whereas in workplace.
Elections are due subsequent yr, with President Samia planning to run for a second time period. Mr Lissu can be planning to run for president as soon as once more.
The 2 will almost definitely face off to see who will turn out to be king of the jungle.
You might also be curious about:
Go to BBCAfrica.com for extra information from the African continent.
Comply with us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Fb at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica
BBC Africa podcasts
