RUTO questions the credibility of Tanzanian President SAMIA SULUHU’s election victory - “You Can Never Get 96% of Votes in Kenya”

Monday, November 10, 2025 - President William Ruto has cast doubt on the credibility of Tanzania’s recent General Election, where President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with a staggering 97.66% of the vote.

Speaking during an interview with Al Jazeera on Sunday, November 9^th, Ruto remarked that such overwhelming margins are implausible in a functioning democracy like Kenya’s.

“In a democracy, for example, in Kenya, you can never get 96 percent,” Ruto stated, adding that while each country has its own political dynamics, democracy remains the most reliable governance system.

“It is not tidy, it is not always easy because there are all manner of moving parts, but I think we must work together to ensure we protect democracy”

His comments come amid growing scrutiny of Tanzania’s October 29^th election, which was marred by reports of violence, internet shutdowns, and the exclusion of key opposition figures.

CHADEMA’s Tundu Lissu was detained on treason charges, while ACT-Wazalendo’s Luhaga Mpina was blocked from contesting.

Despite the controversy, President Ruto formally congratulated Suluhu on November 3^rd, expressing hope for continued cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya, I extend sincere congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election,” he said.

President Suluhu was sworn in on the same day in Dodoma, with Kenya’s Deputy President Kithure Kindiki attending the ceremony on Ruto’s behalf.

The Kenyan DAILY POST