Tanzanian MP Accepts President Ruto’s Apology, Calls for Stronger Ties
Tanzanian Member of Parliament Zahor Mohamed has officially accepted an apology issued by Kenyan President William Ruto, calling for reconciliation and stronger diplomatic ties between the two East African nations.
While addressing the Tanzanian Parliament, MP Zahor stressed the importance of preserving the deep-rooted bilateral relations between Kenya and Tanzania, despite occasional diplomatic disagreements.
“I take this opportunity to quickly express our appreciation. I have read that our friend and brother, President Ruto, has asked for forgiveness, and we accept it. No human being is perfect. If we have a problem, we must forgive each other and move on,” Zahor stated in Swahili.
He further emphasized that challenges are a natural part of diplomatic relations and should not be allowed to erode the spirit of cooperation between the two countries.
“Where we have stumbled as Parliament, I ask that we reflect and understand that we need each other as friends and as partner nations. We cannot move forward without facing a few challenges.”
Ruto’s Public Apology
The remarks came in response to President Ruto’s public apology during the National Prayer Breakfast held at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi on May 28. Ruto extended a hand of reconciliation to both Uganda and Tanzania.
“To our neighbours from Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, forgive us. Our friends from Uganda, if there is anything Kenyans have done that is not right, we want to apologise,” Ruto said.
The Source of Tensions
The diplomatic strain followed the deportation of Kenyan activists who had traveled to Tanzania to attend a court session involving Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. The incident ignited a wave of criticism and online exchanges between citizens of both countries.
Despite the tensions, Zahor’s remarks signal a possible turning point, with Tanzanian lawmakers appearing ready to move forward and focus on strengthening cooperation in trade, security, and regional integration.
The gesture has been lauded across both nations as a necessary step toward healing and rebuilding mutual trust.
In other news:BCLB Bans Celebrities, Influencers from Promoting Gambling in Kenya
Tanzanian MP Accepts President Ruto’s Apology, Calls for Stronger Ties