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

Tanzanian Members of Parliament have openly praised President William Ruto after he addressed their Parliament in Dodoma on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Some even expressed hope that he will win re-election in Kenya’s 2027 General Election.

During the session, MPs said Kenyans made the right decision when they elected Ruto in 2022. They also shared confidence that he may still get another chance to lead Kenya again.

One of the MPs, Ikungi West representative Emmanuel Kingu, said East African countries should remain united despite national borders. He added that Kenya and Tanzania share strong brotherly ties and should continue supporting each other’s leadership.

Kingu also expressed goodwill towards President Ruto, saying Tanzanians respect Kenya’s democratic choice and wish him success in his political journey. He even read a Bible verse while offering prayers for the Kenyan leader ahead of the next elections.

President Ruto was in Tanzania on a two-day state visit aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The visit focused on improving trade, infrastructure, and diplomatic relations.

While speaking in Parliament, Ruto praised Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership and reaffirmed the strong relationship between the two neighbouring countries.

His address in Dodoma was also historic, as he became one of the few foreign leaders to speak in the Tanzanian Parliament since independence, following in the footsteps of Kenya’s former President Daniel arap Moi, who addressed the House in 2002.

Ruto also highlighted major development plans, including a proposed multi-billion-shilling oil refinery project expected to be built in Tanga. The project was welcomed by local leaders, who said it would boost development in the region.

However, the announcement sparked some concern after President Samia Suluhu noted that such major plans should be discussed and agreed upon through proper government channels before being made public.

Despite this, the visit ended with both countries emphasizing cooperation and continued friendship, especially in trade and regional development.