President William Ruto skipped the swearing-in ceremony of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan held on Monday, opting instead to send his deputy, Kithure Kindiki, to represent Kenya at the event. The ceremony, currently underway in Dodoma, follows a heated Tanzanian election conducted on October 29 that saw Suluhu declared the winner by the national electoral commission.
Earlier in the day, President Ruto took to social media to congratulate President Suluhu on her re-election, expressing optimism that Kenya and Tanzania would continue to strengthen their bilateral relations. “Kenya looks forward to deepening our long-standing partnership with Tanzania under President Suluhu’s renewed leadership,” Ruto said in his message.
Deputy President Kindiki joined other high-ranking officials and dignitaries from across Africa who are attending the inauguration. Leaders from the East African Community (EAC), the African Union (AU), and international observers have gathered to witness Suluhu’s second term in office.
The absence of President Ruto has drawn attention from regional analysts, given the close economic and political ties between Nairobi and Dodoma. However, diplomatic sources indicate that the move was procedural, as many heads of state have chosen to send delegations instead of attending in person due to tight domestic schedules and ongoing regional engagements.
President Suluhu’s re-election comes amid calls for enhanced regional cooperation and economic recovery following recent global challenges. Her first term was marked by efforts to rebuild diplomatic bridges and expand trade within the East African bloc, a direction expected to continue during her new tenure.
Deputy President Kindiki’s presence at the ceremony underscores Kenya’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with Tanzania, a key trading and strategic partner in the region.
