Ruto Congratulates Suluhu, Appeals for Calm as Tanzania Protests Continue
President Ruto has asked Tanzanians to remain calm and follow the law as protests and violence continue to rock the country after the disputed October 29 general election.
While congratulating President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election on Monday, November 3, Ruto asked political leaders to prioritise dialogue and national unity.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya and on my own behalf, I extend my sincere congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election in the General Election held on 29 October 2025,” he said.
Ruto added, “I urge the patriotic people of Tanzania to maintain peace and the rule of law and I encourage all political actors and stakeholders to engage in dialogue and tolerance as they seek to resolve any issues at hand to safeguard democracy and stability.”
It was the first time Ruto publicly commented on the situation in Tanzania where protests have been going on for five days. He reiterated Kenya’s willingness to help restore peace across the border, emphasizing regional cooperation.
“Kenya is ready to continue to engage constructively in the pursuit of our shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous and integrated East Africa,” he said.
But Ruto did not mention reports that several Kenyans had been killed in the ongoing clashes. VOCAL Africa CEO Hussein Khalid said on Sunday that his organization had received reports of Kenyan casualties, including one identified as John Okoth Ogutu, who was allegedly shot on election day in Dar es Salaam.
“We are receiving reports that there are Kenyans who have been killed in Tanzania,” Khalid posted on X, adding that Ogutu’s body is at Mwananyamala Mortuary in Ubungo.
Ruto’s message came after reports that he had spoken to President Suluhu on Wednesday, alongside Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni as violence spread in several parts of Tanzania. Although details of the conversations are not clear, sources said Suluhu may have sought support from fellow East African leaders as the international community grows concerned about the situation.
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Ruto Congratulates Suluhu, Appeals for Calm as Tanzania Protests Continue