Tanzanian MP prays for Ruto’s re-election after Parliament address

President William Ruto (left) inside the Tanzania parliament and Singida West MP Emmanuel Kingu on Tuesday, May 5 /SCREENGRAB

Applause filled Tanzania’s Parliament Tuesday after a legislator delivered an unexpected prayer wishing President William Ruto victory in the 2027 general election.

Singida West constituency MP Emmanuel Kingu delivered the heartfelt remarks in the National Assembly in Dodoma, following President Ruto’s powerful speech to lawmakers.

Ruto was in Tanzania for a two-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the neighbouring countries.

In an emotional address that drew applause from members, Kingu said Ruto’s speech had reminded him of the enduring dreams of the founding fathers of both nations, Julius Nyerere and Jomo Kenyatta, which he said continue to live on through current leaders.

“The words spoken by President Ruto in this House today have reminded me of two things: that the dreams of Mwalimu Nyerere and Mzee Kenyatta are still alive in the hearts of our presidents, Samia Suluhu Hassan and Dr William Ruto,” Kingu said.

He praised Ruto’s leadership, noting that his address demonstrated the trust Kenyans placed in him was not misplaced.

“We are convinced that the love President Ruto has for Kenyans shows they did not make a mistake in choosing him as their leader,” Kingu said.

Kingu emphasised the deep historical and cultural ties between Kenya and Tanzania, describing citizens of both nations as “brothers and sisters” whose unity transcends borders.

“Parliament of Tanzania considers Kenyans as our blood relatives. Borders cannot divide us,” he said.

In a rare moment in parliamentary proceedings, the MP offered a prayer for Ruto, quoting the Bible from Psalms 121:7-8 and asking for divine protection over the Kenyan leader.

He expressed confidence in Ruto’s leadership and wished him victory in the next general election.

“As Tanzanians, we will continue praying for you. May God protect you in all your work now and forever,” Kingu said, adding, “Go as a hero, Ruto. We will remember you.”

He also commended Suluhu’s reforms in Tanzania, noting that her leadership, alongside Ruto’s, reflects a shared vision for progress in the region.

The remarks capped a high-profile parliamentary session that underscored growing cooperation between Nairobi and Dodoma, with leaders from both sides reiterating their commitment to regional integration and unity.