President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s landslide re-election, officially announced on November 1, 2025, has drawn a flurry of congratulatory messages from foreign heads of state and international institutions, even as widespread allegations of rigging, voter suppression, and violent crackdowns threaten to overshadow the result.
Congratulations Trickle in
The African Union (AU) and East African Community (EAC) were among the first to acknowledge her victory, urging calm amid post-election tensions.
In a joint statement, the AU Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, commended Tanzanians for participating in the democratic process and congratulated President Samia on her re-election.
He also expressed condolences for lives lost during protests that erupted in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha following the announcement of the results.
“The African Union reaffirms its readiness to support the people and Government of Tanzania in their efforts to preserve peace, national cohesion, and democracy.”
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf added that AU would continue to support Tanzania’s democratic institutions and expressed their belief in Samia Suluhu.
The East African Community echoed the AU’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for stability and regional cooperation.
While the EAC did not name individual leaders in its statement, it reaffirmed its commitment to working with Tanzania under Samia’s leadership.
African Presidents Acknowledge Samia Suluhu
Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud praised Samia’s “resilience and leadership,” noting that her re-election was a testament to the trust Tanzanians have placed in her administration.
“I extend warm congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu on her re-election as President of the United Republic of Tanzania. Her victory reflects the trust & confidence of the Tanzanian people.”
He pledged to deepen bilateral ties between Mogadishu and Dodoma, particularly in trade and security.
“Somalia looks forward to deepening our brotherly ties & advancing regional peace & prosperity.”
Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye also extended his congratulations, describing Samia’s win as a victory for East African unity.
“Dear Sister, Her Excellency Samia Suluhu, on behalf of the people of Burundi and on my own behalf, I extend my sincere congratulations on your re-election, wishing you success and prosperity on your second term as the President of Tanzania.”
President Évariste Ndayishimiye emphasized the importance of continued collaboration on infrastructure and cross-border development projects.
“Burundi and Tanzania will continue strong cooperation for shared development.”
Notable Absentees
Notably absent from the congratulatory chorus are several key regional leaders, including Kenya’s President William Ruto, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, and Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni.
Their silence has sparked speculation about diplomatic unease over the conduct of the election, which opposition groups and civil society organizations have described as heavily restricted and marred by intimidation.
The UN has expressed concern over post-election violence but has not formally congratulated Samia.
The lack of statements from global powers such as the United States and China further underscores the international community’s cautious approach, as it balances strategic interests with concerns over governance and human rights.
Also Read: Why Museveni and Suluhu Should Wake Up and Smell the Coffee
This diplomatic restraint could complicate Tanzania’s efforts to position itself as a regional anchor in trade and security.
Tanzania’s 2025 Election
Tanzania’s 2025 general election saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan re-elected with 97.95% of the vote, amid widespread criticism over the exclusion of opposition candidates and suppression of dissent.
The ruling CCM party dominated a tightly controlled political landscape, with civil society groups reporting internet shutdowns, arbitrary arrests, and violent crackdowns on protests.
Also Read: Tanzania Protests: Samia Suluhu’s Mistakes and Lessons for the Region
Major cities, including Dar es Salaam and Arusha, witnessed unrest as citizens challenged the legitimacy of the vote.
While regional blocs have offered swift congratulations, the silence from influential African and global leaders suggests a cautious diplomatic posture amid growing concerns over Tanzania’s democratic direction.
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