“Congratulations to President Suluhu,” Ruto Tells Tanzanians, Urges Calm After Disputed Polls

President William Ruto has sent warm congratulations to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan after her controversial election victory, even as unrest continues to grip parts of Tanzania. His message, delivered on Monday, emphasized peace, dialogue and regional unity amid the country’s tense political atmosphere.

Ruto praised President Suluhu for her leadership and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to close ties with Tanzania. He said both nations share a common dream of a “peaceful, prosperous and united East Africa.” In his message, Ruto urged Tanzanians to remain calm and engage in peaceful dialogue. “I congratulate President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her victory,” he said. “I encourage all political actors to embrace tolerance and dialogue to safeguard democracy and stability.”

However, the recently concluded election on October 29 was far from calm. Protests erupted in several cities as opposition supporters accused the government of conducting a one-sided election. The tension deepened after opposition leader Tundu Lissu was detained, forcing his party, CHADEMA, to boycott the vote entirely. Demonstrators filled the streets demanding electoral reforms and the release of detained opposition members.

Security forces quickly responded, using tear gas to disperse crowds and setting up heavy patrols in key cities, including Dar es Salaam. On Saturday, the electoral commission announced that President Suluhu had secured an overwhelming 98 percent of the total votes—a result that further fueled anger among opposition groups.

In the wake of the unrest, the government imposed a night curfew in Dar es Salaam. Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila warned that police would act firmly against anyone threatening public peace. Despite the measures, tensions remained high as citizens voiced frustration over the election outcome.

Opposition leaders claimed that hundreds of people were killed during the protests. Yet, the United Nations human rights office reported at least ten confirmed deaths in three cities. The government dismissed the opposition’s claims as “highly exaggerated” and defended its security operations.

Ruto’s message of congratulations stood as a powerful call for stability in the region. As Tanzania faces growing political pressure, his words underscored the need for tolerance, unity and respect for democracy.