Museveni Congratulates Samia Suluhu on Re-Election, Vows to Strengthen Uganda–Tanzania Relations
Opposition figures claimed the restrictions on campaigns and the arrests of their supporters affected the fairness of the polls.
Uganda President Yoweri Museveni with Tanzania's newly elected President Samia Suluhu. Photo/courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has extended warm congratulations to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan following her re-election, commending her leadership while reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to deepen its bilateral ties with Tanzania.
In a statement on Monday, President Museveni expressed his views: Suluhu’s victory is testimony to the trust and confidence that the people of Tanzania have entrusted in her leadership to navigate the future course of the country. He lauded her efforts at maintaining political stability and steering Tanzania toward sustained economic growth.
“President Samia’s victory reflects the confidence that the people of Tanzania have in her leadership and vision. Uganda and Tanzania enjoy historic bonds of friendship and cooperation. I look forward to working closely with her toward strengthening our partnership in trade, infrastructure, and regional integration for the peace and prosperity of our peoples,” Museveni said.
Museveni sent his congratulatory message almost immediately after the inauguration of President Suluhu held at State House in Dodoma, that was attended by several African leaders and dignitaries. The event marked official commencement of Suluhu’s new five-year term following a hotly contested general election in which she secured a commanding win.
In her swearing-in speech, President Suluhu swore to continue fostering peace and unity for economic development, promising the people of Tanzania a government characterized by inclusiveness, stability, and resilience. She emphasized the importance of working together as one nation, urging citizens to put national interests above political divisions.
“It is through the contribution of all that progress will be achieved for our nation,” she added, promising her administration would be committed to developing education, health, and industries.
Regional leaders like President William Ruto of Kenya, Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, and Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa congratulated Suluhu as a symbol of strong leadership and cooperation in the region. The African Union and the East African Community also praised her for the commitment she has shown to maintaining democracy and peace in Tanzania.
However, the re-election of Suluhu was criticized by opposition members and international observers due to the reported irregularities during the election process and violence in certain parts of the country after the announcement of results. Opposition figures claimed the restrictions on campaigns and the arrests of their supporters affected the fairness of the polls.
Addressing the unrest, President Suluhu condemned acts of violence and vandalism that erupted in several cities, describing them as un-Tanzanian. She revealed that some individuals arrested in connection with the riots were from outside the country, assuring citizens that security forces were investigating the matter.
“What happened does not reflect the true character of Tanzanians. We are a peaceful nation, and we must protect that image. The incidents that occurred were unfortunate and do not define who we are,” President Suluhu said.
Despite the tension, regional observers, including the Southern African Development Community, declared that the elections were largely peaceful and called on all political players to use legal and constitutional means to address whatever disputes they might have. With renewed support from regional allies like Uganda, President Suluhu’s administration now has the task of uniting the nation and delivering her promise for progress and stability.
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