Tanzania President Condemned for “rude remarks” against female footballers

The President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, is facing sharp condemnation for what critics described as “rude remarks” against female footballers. 

Madam Hassan is reported to have said female were having “flat chests” and are unattractive for marriage.

She reportedly made the remarks at state house in Dar es Salaam to receive a trophy won by the national under-23 football team for the season’s Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa) challenge cup.

According to her, while women were making Tanzania proud by winning trophies, some of them did not stand a chance at getting married because of the way they looked.

She indicated that “If we bring them here and line them up, for those with flat chests, you might think they are men – not women.”

The President added that  while some of the sportswomen were married, most of them were not, “and for the way they are, a life of marriage… is a just a dream”.

But her remarks have not gone down well with some Tanzanians.

She individuals have taken to social media to criticize her.

A Twitter user identified as Maria Tsehai stated: “This is what the ‘first female president’ has to say about other women who are challenging stereotypes by playing professional soccer!,”

Another Twitter user, Harry Mwala wrote: “What she says is not true!! She has generalized without scientific factsregarding women athletes their flat chest and their not having beauty and regarding their marriage prospects!! She is not only wrong but she lies yet again!”