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Diamond Platnumz Breaks Silence, Urges Peace After Tanzania’s Contested Election

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – In his first public statement since a self-imposed exile following Tanzania’s contentious October 29 general election, music superstar Diamond Platnumz has called for national peace and unity, breaking a silence that had drawn intense criticism from citizens.

The Bongo Flava icon, whose real name is Naseeb Abdul Juma, addressed the nation via a lengthy social media post on Monday, appealing for calm and trust in divine will amid ongoing political turmoil.

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“God is the architect of everything…and nothing happens without His will, and everything happens for a reason,” Diamond wrote in Swahili. “God willing, may He grant us reasons that bring great blessings to our nation.”

He further implored, “May He grant us even more peace than we had before, more love, more unity, solidarity, mutual affection, development, and may He rest the souls of those who have passed in a good place in paradise, Amen!”

The statement, titled “God Knows the Reasons for My Silence,” is a direct response to a firestorm of backlash the artist faced for his absence and perceived neutrality during a critical juncture in Tanzania’s democratic process. While opposition supporters and other artists faced violent reprisals and saw their businesses targeted, Diamond reportedly departed the country, first for Kenya and then to Dubai.

This contrast fueled accusations of privilege and betrayal, with many citizens and online critics alleging that the superstar’s close ties to the political elite afforded him protections not available to others.

Diamond Platnumz has historically maintained a carefully apolitical public persona, building a cross-spectrum business empire that includes Wasafi Media, music production, and various endorsements. However, his silence during this crisis, critics argue, constituted tacit support for the status quo.

The election itself has been marred by controversy. A damning report from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Observation Mission concluded that voters were “unable to express their democratic will” due to systematic intimidation, ballot stuffing, and constitutional barriers. The period was also marked by an internet blackout, the detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu on treason charges, and reports of violence in several regions.

Public reaction to Diamond’s statement has been sharply divided. Supporters have praised his call for unity, viewing his religious appeals as a constructive step toward national healing.

“It’s a message of peace when we need it most. We should all embrace it,” one supporter commented online.

Conversely, critics have dismissed the post as inadequate and self-serving.

“It’s easy to call for peace from Dubai while your fellow citizens are suffering,” one social media user wrote. “Diamond had a platform and influence to speak truth to power, but he chose privilege over principle.”

The situation underscores the precarious position of celebrities with significant business interests in politically volatile environments. Analysts suggest Diamond’s cautious approach is a strategic move to protect his vast commercial empire, which would be vulnerable to retaliation should he fall out of favour with the authorities.

As one of Africa’s most prominent entertainers, Diamond’s handling of this crisis sets a precedent for how public figures navigate the tension between civic duty and self-preservation during democratic challenges. He has not announced a date for his return to Tanzania, leaving his future presence in the country he now urges to unite, uncertain.