President William Ruto has skipped the inauguration of President Samia Suluhu in Dodoma, Tanzania.
Instead, the President sent Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to represent him at the event that is currently ongoing following a contentious election on October 29.
Kindiki arrived at the venue at 11:40 a.m., just minutes before the ceremony officially commenced.
The DP’s presence could be seen as Kenya’s commitment to maintaining diplomatic and economic ties with its East African neighbour.
Earlier Monday, Ruto congratulated Suluhu after being elected as President of Tanzania in the recently concluded general election.
He congratulated Suluhu on her victory in the general elections held on Wednesday, October 29, which were marred by violent protests.
Ruto also mentioned that Kenya and Tanzania share deep historical bonds and common goals for regional stability.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I extend sincere congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election in the General Election held on 29 October 2025.
“Kenya and Tanzania share deep historical ties and common aspirations for the prosperity and stability of our peoples, anchored in our shared history and our joint membership in the East African Community (EAC),” he said.
Ruto urged Tanzanians to uphold peace and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and tolerance among political actors.
“I call upon the patriotic people of Tanzania to uphold peace and the rule of law, and I encourage all political actors and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and tolerance as they seek to resolve any issues at hand in order to safeguard democracy and stability,” he added.
Suluhu’s re-election marks the continuation of her leadership since first assuming office in 2021 following the death of John Pombe Magufuli.
On Saturday, November 1, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced Suluhu had won the election.
INEC said that President Suluhu, who vied on a Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) ticket, garnered over 31 million votes, representing 97.66% of the total ballots cast, securing her a decisive victory.
“Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan of CCM got 31,913,866 votes, being 97.66% of the votes. In observance of the relevant constitution and the laws of the United Republic of Tanzania, I declare Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan as having been elected the president of the United Republic of Tanzania,” INEC chairman Jacobs Mwambegele announced.
The results came in the wake of violent protests reported in the country as civilians took to the streets to demand the integrity of the vote.
