Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi has admitted that recent criticism by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan regarding Kenyans’ conduct may carry some truth.

Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday evening, May 20, Mudavadi responded to President Samia’s remarks about a perceived lack of respect and civility among Kenyans, especially in the way they express themselves.

“I think there is some truth,” Mudavadi said. “Let’s be honest. The level of decency, the level of insults that sometimes dominates public discourse in Kenya, is excessive. While we value freedom of expression, it’s true that at times people cross the line.”

Mudavadi, who also serves as Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, noted that the Kenyan culture of open expression often leads to undignified language, especially in political and social discussions.

“As a Kenyan, I must say that while our freedom of speech is important, it sometimes comes at the expense of decorum and moral integrity. What President Samia said is completely true,” he added.