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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has congratulated Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election, praising her leadership and expressing hope for stronger ties between the two nations. In a statement released on Saturday, President Mohamud said he was pleased to see President Samia win another term, describing her victory as a reflection of the Tanzanian people’s confidence in her leadership. “I extend warm congratulations to H.E. Samia Suluhu on her re-election as President of the United Republic of Tanzania,” he said. “Her victory reflects the trust and confidence of the Tanzanian people. Somalia looks forward to deepening our brotherly ties and advancing regional peace and prosperity.”
The re-election of President Samia Suluhu marks a significant moment in Tanzania’s political history, as she becomes the country’s first woman to win a second term in office. She first assumed the presidency in 2021 following the death of former President John Magufuli. Since then, she has positioned herself as a stabilizing force in Tanzanian politics, steering the nation through economic challenges, diplomatic engagements, and governance reforms aimed at improving transparency and inclusivity.
According to Tanzania’s electoral commission, President Samia won with an overwhelming 97.66 percent of the vote in last Wednesday’s election. However, the poll has drawn controversy after several opposition candidates were barred from participating. This led to criticism from local and international observers who questioned the fairness of the electoral process. Reports from various parts of the country indicated that tensions ran high on election day, with tight security measures implemented across major cities.
Witnesses reported that protests broke out in some regions as angry demonstrators clashed with police, tore down campaign posters, and set fire to public property. Security forces were seen using tear gas and firing warning shots to disperse the crowds. The situation created widespread concern about the state of political freedoms and the treatment of opposition figures in the country.
Adding to the tensions, internet monitoring group NetBlocks confirmed that access to social media and mobile internet services was restricted during and after the vote. Many Tanzanians found it difficult to communicate or share updates online, a move that drew sharp criticism from digital rights organizations who argued that such restrictions undermined transparency and public trust in the electoral process.
Despite the unrest, President Samia’s supporters celebrated her victory, viewing it as a continuation of her agenda to strengthen Tanzania’s economy and improve regional cooperation. During her first term, she focused on rebuilding international relations and promoting economic reforms to attract investment, especially in infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture. Her administration has also been praised for advancing women’s participation in leadership and creating more opportunities for youth empowerment.
In Somalia, President Mohamud’s congratulatory message reflects a broader regional spirit of cooperation. Both countries are members of the East African Community (EAC), and their partnership has grown in recent years through trade, security, and education exchanges. Somali officials said they hope to build on this momentum by expanding diplomatic and economic collaboration with Tanzania, especially in areas that promote peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region.
President Samia’s re-election gives her a strong mandate to continue shaping Tanzania’s political and economic future. While challenges remain, including managing dissent and ensuring democratic freedoms, her leadership is expected to play a vital role in maintaining stability and fostering progress in one of East Africa’s most influential nations.