President William Ruto has finally spoken about the situation in Tanzania following days of post-election violence and protests that erupted after the October 29 polls.
In his statement on Monday, November 3, Ruto congratulated President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election and urged Tanzanians to remain calm, peaceful, and respectful of the rule of law.
Ruto praised Suluhu for her victory and expressed Kenya’s commitment to maintaining good relations with its neighbour.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election in the General Election held on 29 October 2025,” he said.
The Kenyan President called on Tanzanian leaders and citizens to embrace dialogue as the best way to address the political tensions that have shaken the country since the election.
“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 to safeguard democracy and stability,” Ruto noted.
This was Ruto’s first public statement about the Tanzanian elections, which have triggered protests across several regions. He emphasized that Kenya is ready to support Tanzania in restoring peace and stability, stressing the importance of unity within the East African Community (EAC).
“Kenya stands ready to continue engaging constructively in the pursuit of our shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated East Africa,” he added.
However, Ruto’s remarks did not touch on the growing concern about reports of Kenyans killed during the Tanzanian protests. Several civil society leaders and human rights organizations have raised alarm over the deaths of foreigners caught in the violence.
VOCAL Africa CEO Hussein Khalid posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, revealing reports that some Kenyans had lost their lives during the unrest.
He mentioned one victim, identified as John Okoth Ogutu, a Kenyan teacher who was allegedly shot dead on election day, October 29, in Ubungo, Dar es Salaam.
“We are receiving reports that there are Kenyans who have been killed in Tanzania,” Khalid stated. He added that Okoth’s body is currently being held at Mwananyamala Mortuary as investigations continue.
Ruto’s statement came just days after reports surfaced that he had spoken with President Suluhu by phone amid rising tensions in Tanzania.
According to Africa Intelligence, Suluhu held separate phone calls with Presidents Ruto and Yoweri Museveni on Wednesday evening, although the details of those conversations were not made public.
Sources close to the East African Community suggest that Suluhu may have reached out to the two leaders seeking their support in restoring calm and preventing the violence from spreading further.
The post-election situation in Tanzania has drawn international attention, with many calling for immediate dialogue to end the bloodshed and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Ruto’s message is seen as a diplomatic move aimed at encouraging peace while reaffirming Kenya’s position as a key player in promoting regional stability and unity in East Africa.
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