Ruto Urges Peaceful Dialogue in Tanzania Amid Post-Election Unrest, Congratulates President Suluhu on Re-Election
Ruto’s call for peace came after reports emerged that he had spoken to President Suluhu when tensions were brewing in various parts of Tanzania.
Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region, putting an emphasis on the importance of cooperation within the East African Community. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
President William Ruto has urged Tanzanians to ensure peace and restrain themselves against violence, amidst widespread violence that followed the country’s October 29 general election. In a statement issued on Monday, November 3, the Kenyan Head of State congratulated President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election, while urging all political actors in Tanzania to resolve their differences through dialogue and respect for democratic principles.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I extend my warmest congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election in the General Election held on 29 October 2025,” Ruto said.
The head of state then called on Tanzanians to be calm and to find non-violent means of resolving the current political crisis. “I call upon the patriotic citizens of Tanzania to uphold peace, unity, and the rule of law. I also urge all political leaders and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and tolerance as they work toward resolving any outstanding issues in order to safeguard democracy and stability in their nation,” he added.
This was the first official statement by Ruto on the situation in Tanzania since the outbreak of protests, which have now entered their fifth consecutive day, leaving hundreds dead and many injured according to opposition sources and human rights groups. Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region, putting an emphasis on the importance of cooperation within the East African Community.
“Kenya stands ready to continue engaging constructively in the pursuit of our shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated East Africa,” he remarked.
However, Ruto’s message did not directly address reports of Kenyans killed during the unrest, a matter that has drawn growing concern across both nations. On Sunday, VOCAL Africa CEO Hussein Khalid revealed through social media that some Kenyans were among those killed in Tanzania. He identified one of the victims as John Okoth Ogutu, a teacher reportedly shot dead in Ubungo, Dar es Salaam, on election day, October 29. According to Khalid, Okoth’s body was taken to Mwananyamala Mortuary, though the Tanzanian authorities have not yet commented on the incident.
Ruto’s call for peace came after reports emerged that he had spoken to President Suluhu on Wednesday evening, when tensions were brewing in various parts of Tanzania. According to Africa Intelligence, Suluhu also spoke with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni later on Wednesday evening. While the content of the discussions was not available to the public, regional observers say this was likely an appeal to fellow EAC heads of state for help in trying to restore calm in Tanzania.
With the violence continuing to receive global attention and condemnation, President Ruto’s message underscored the call for regional solidarity and peaceful resolution of conflict and reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness to help Tanzania navigate this period of uncertainty through constructive engagement and dialogue.
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