President William Ruto skipped the swearing-in ceremony of Tanzanian president-elect Samia Suluhu Hassan and instead delegated Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to attend the event on his behalf.
Kindiki touched down in Dodoma on Monday, November 3, ahead of the ceremony, marking Kenya’s show of continued goodwill and diplomatic engagement with Tanzania. A video shared online captured his arrival amid tight security preparations for the inauguration.
According to Tanzanian media, the event was held at the State House in Dodoma rather than the traditional stadium setting, and members of the public were barred from attending. The decision came amid heightened security concerns following violent protests that erupted after the October 29 election.
The controversial poll left several people dead and dozens injured, with opposition leaders claiming the process was neither free nor fair. Despite the unrest, Suluhu secured a landslide victory, garnering more than 31 million votes out of roughly 32 million cast—representing an overwhelming majority, according to the electoral commission.
Also Read: Ruto Congratulates Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu on Re-Election, Urges Calm after Disputed Poll
President Ruto had earlier extended his congratulations to Suluhu, lauding her re-election as a reaffirmation of the enduring friendship between Kenya and Tanzania. He emphasised the two nations’ shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated East Africa under the East African Community framework.
“I urge all political actors and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and tolerance as they address any emerging issues to safeguard democracy and stability,” Ruto said in his earlier message.
Meanwhile, Tanzania remained tense as schools and colleges stayed closed, and public transport operations were suspended during the high-profile yet subdued inauguration. Internet access also remained restricted across the country.
In her victory speech, President Suluhu dismissed opposition claims of irregularities, describing the election as free and democratic. She criticised ongoing protests as “unpatriotic acts” threatening national peace.
Tanzania Police spokesperson David Misime alleged that foreign nationals had infiltrated the country to incite violence, disguising themselves as businesspeople in sectors such as the boda boda industry. He warned that citizens who harbour such individuals would face prosecution if found complicit.
The Tanzanian government has pledged to intensify investigations into the post-election violence as Suluhu begins her new term amid calls for reconciliation and calm.
