Strategies of (De)Legitimation of COVID-19 Vaccines in Tanzanian Political Speeches

The COVID-19 pandemic sparked worldwide efforts to combat the health crisis, including vaccine development and distribution. However, varying political responses vaccination policies complicated public discourse influenced acceptance. This research paper employs critical analysis (CDA) compare (de)legitimation strategies used in Tanzanian speeches by two presidents: late President Magufuli current Samia Suluhu Hassan. study focuses on their approaches legitimizing or delegitimizing vaccines 2021. Two were purposefully selected based relevance decisions. employed such as discrediting experts, others, denial, conspiracy theories, making accusations delegitimize vaccines. In contrast, justified acceptance using authorization, moral evaluation, emotional appeals, rationalization. These differences approach can be attributed respective ideologies. Magufuli, a populist leader, displayed scepticism towards Western medicine promoted local solutions, while presented herself pragmatic leader who prioritizes scientific solutions international cooperation addressing crises. findings shed light complexities of communication Tanzania.