NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has congratulated Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election following a landslide victory in the October 29 general election, where she secured 97.66 per cent of the vote, according to official results released by the Tanzanian Electoral Commission.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 3, Ruto extended his “sincere congratulations” to President Suluhu on behalf of the Kenyan government and people, praising her leadership and commitment to regional cooperation.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya, I extend sincere congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election,” the statement read.
Ruto noted that Kenya and Tanzania “share deep historical ties and common aspirations for the prosperity and stability of our peoples, anchored in our shared history and our joint membership in the East African Community (EAC).”
The Kenyan leader urged Tanzanians to uphold peace and the rule of law following the hotly contested polls, which opposition leaders have claimed were marred by irregularities.
“I call upon the patriotic people of Tanzania to uphold peace and the rule of law, and I encourage all political actors and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and tolerance as they seek to resolve any issues at hand in order to safeguard democracy and stability,” he stated.
Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness to continue strengthening bilateral relations with Tanzania, emphasizing joint efforts toward regional peace, prosperity, and integration. “Kenya stands ready to continue engaging constructively in the pursuit of our shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated East Africa,” he said.
Suluhu’s re-election extends her rule after first assuming office in 2021, following the death of President John Magufuli. Her ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has maintained its long-standing dominance in Tanzanian politics.
Analysts note that Ruto’s swift congratulatory message signals Nairobi’s intention to preserve cordial ties with Dodoma amid wider regional efforts to boost trade and integration within the EAC bloc, which also includes Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
While international observers are yet to issue a comprehensive assessment of the poll, preliminary reports indicate limited space for opposition activity, raising renewed debate on electoral competitiveness in Tanzania.
Suluhu’s victory and Ruto’s message come at a time when both nations are seeking to deepen economic cooperation, including cross-border infrastructure projects and energy partnerships under the EAC framework.
