Tanzanian MPs Praise Ruto, Pray for His Re-election After Parliament Address

Tanzanian MPs Praise Ruto, Pray for His Re-election After Parliament Address

Members of Parliament in Tanzania have openly praised William Ruto following his historic address to the Parliament of Tanzania, with some lawmakers going as far as expressing support for his re-election bid in Kenya’s 2027 General Election.

Ruto, who was on a two-day state visit to Tanzania, delivered a landmark speech in Dodoma on Tuesday, May 5, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties, regional cooperation, and economic integration between Kenya and Tanzania.

During parliamentary deliberations that followed the address, several Tanzanian MPs lauded the Kenyan leader’s vision and leadership, framing his presidency as beneficial not only to Kenya but also to the wider East African region.

Ikungi West MP Emmanuel Kingu stated, “I am convinced beyond reasonable doubt that Kenyans did not make a mistake in electing Ruto in 2022. Our borders cannot divide us. Tell Kenyans we take them as our brothers and sisters and we will continue to support you.”

The MP went further to invoke religious sentiments, offering prayers for the Kenyan Head of State ahead of the next electoral cycle.

He added, “You have chosen to believe in our President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Who are we not to pray for you so that you can win the next general elections?” His remarks, delivered on the floor of the House, were accompanied by a reading from scripture, symbolising a show of goodwill and regional solidarity.

Ruto’s address marked a significant diplomatic moment, making him only the second foreign Head of State to address the Tanzanian Parliament since independence, after Daniel arap Moi did so in 2002.

In his speech, Ruto emphasised the importance of unity, trade partnerships, and infrastructure development across East Africa, positioning regional cooperation as a key driver of economic growth.

Ruto noted during his address, “Our partnership as neighbouring nations must go beyond borders and focus on shared prosperity, infrastructure, and economic transformation.” He also commended Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership, particularly following her election victory in October 2025.

Among the major issues highlighted during the address was the proposed multi-billion-shilling oil refinery project expected to be constructed in Tanga, a coastal region in Tanzania seen as strategically positioned for energy development.

The proposal received backing from local leaders, including Tanga MP Kassim Mbaraka, who welcomed the plan as a long-awaited opportunity for regional development.

Mbaraka stated, “I am from Tanga and the region has lagged behind on development. But today you have said a refinery should be constructed in Tanga. Thank you so much.”

However, the refinery project has also introduced diplomatic complexity. Shortly after the announcement was first made in Nairobi, President Samia Suluhu publicly questioned the process, stating she had not been consulted prior to the declaration.

Her remarks have raised concerns about coordination and communication between the two governments on major regional projects, even as both leaders continue to emphasise cooperation.

Despite this moment of tension, Ruto’s visit was largely framed as a success, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations and expanding trade links.

The Kenyan President’s tour included bilateral meetings aimed at enhancing cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and cross-border trade, key pillars in the East African integration agenda.

Observers note, “The strong reception in Tanzania reflects a broader effort to reinforce regional unity, even as underlying policy differences emerge.”

As Ruto returns to Kenya, the political undertones of the visit—particularly the public endorsement from Tanzanian MPs—are likely to spark debate back home, especially in the context of the upcoming 2027 elections.

While foreign political endorsements hold no formal influence on Kenya’s electoral process, they underscore the growing importance of regional diplomacy in shaping political narratives.

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Tanzanian MPs Praise Ruto, Pray for His Re-election After Parliament Address