Bernard Membe

Bernard Membe (9 November 1953 – 12 May 2023) was the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation of Tanzania.

Bernard Membe

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• Africa does not have an uncle abroad who will come to bail it out of its political and economic woes. It is important that African countries wake up and pool whatever resources they have and jointly deal elements pulling our continent down a death blow.
  • Quoted in Austin Beyadi, "Unity will end crises, Membe tells Africa," The Guardian (2008-03-28)

• I am not the government`s spokesperson but I can say a few words concerning this (Ballali's) death. I would like to know the person who said the government is responsible for the death. What do you mean when you say the government is behind his death?... I will stand down as cabinet minister if it is proved that the government was indeed involved in the death.
  • Quoted in "Govt behind Ballali death? I`ll resign..." The Guardian (2008-05-26)

• It will be none of this summit's business to choose the titles for leaders, it is the business of this summit to see what we are going to do for the suffering people and masses in Africa.
  • When asked if he would address Robert Mugabe as president; quoted in "Africa urged to act on Zimbabwe," BBC News (2008-06-30)

• The Palestinians fight for their rights and their land using stones and catapults but the Israelis retaliate with disproportional and overwhelming power by using bullets and bombs thus killing so many innocent civilians,
  • during the annual International Day of solidarity with the Palestinian people; quoted in Tanzania touts Middle East peace Tha Daily News (2010=11-30)

• Much as we don’t condone impunity, if pursuit for justice was in conflict with pursuit for peace, peace must prevail.
  • On Sudanese President Omar al Bashir's international arrest warrant.Sudan’s Bashir ‘cancelled visit to Tanzania’