Kenya Reaffirms Strong Ties with Tanzania as Suluhu Sworn In Amid Post-Election Turmoil

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Monday represented President William Ruto at the swearing-in of Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to strong bilateral relations and regional stability even as Tanzania grapples with post-election unrest and an ongoing internet blackout

Kindiki hailed Tanzania as a “key friendly neighbour and strategic trade partner,” stressing that Kenya’s economic and security interests are deeply connected to peace and stability in the East African region and continued integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

“Kenya’s future is inextricably linked to a stable, peaceful and prosperous region,” he stated, conveying Nairobi’s congratulations to President Suluhu and best wishes for continued progress in Tanzania

President Suluhu’s inauguration, held under tight security and without public attendance, marked a sharp break from the usual festive stadium ceremonies

The low-key event came after days of deadly protests over a disputed election in which the electoral commission declared Suluhu the winner with 98 percent of the vote  a result firmly rejected by the opposition

Chadema, the main opposition party barred from contesting, dismissed the vote as a “sham” and demanded a fresh election. Opposition leaders allege that hundreds of protesters have been killed, with diplomatic sources suggesting the toll could be even higher based on hospital and clinic records

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A nationwide internet blackout imposed on election day remains in place, hampering independent reporting and verification of events. In her inaugural address, President Suluhu called for “unity and solidarity,” while claiming that some of those involved in the unrest were “from outside Tanzania.” She pledged that security agencies were investigating and that normalcy would soon return

The ceremony drew significant regional and international attendance, including presidents from Burundi, Zambia, Mozambique, and Somalia, as well as vice presidents from Uganda, Zimbabwe, and the Comoros. Delegations from dozens of other countries were also present, signaling continued diplomatic engagement with Tanzania despite the tense political climate

Writer : Mweru Mbugua