NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 2 — Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu is leading the nation in paying last respects to the country’s second President, Ali Hassan Mwinyi, who succumbed to lung cancer on February 29, aged 98.
The State Funeral is happening at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Saturday where local and foreign leaders are honouring Mwinyi’s contributions to Tanzania.
Zanzibar’s President, Hussein Ali Mwinyi, the late President’s son, is among those present.
Mwinyi will be laid to rest at Mangapwani village in Unguja Highland.
President Suluhu, in a televised address on Thursday, extended her condolences to Mwinyi’s family, friends, and the nation as a whole, acknowledging his profound impact on Tanzania’s development and political landscape.
Mwinyi had been undergoing treatment since November in London, England, before returning to Tanzania for continued care at Mzena Hospital, where he passed away.
President Suluhu announced seven days of national mourning to commemorate Mwinyi’s life and legacy, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast, starting Friday.
Ali Hassan Mwinyi who was born in Kivure village, Pwani region, in 1925, served as Tanzania’s second president from 1985 to 1995, succeeding President Julius Nyerere who died in October 1999.
Before assuming the presidency, he held notable positions, including Interior Minister and Vice President.
He also chaired the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), from 1990 to 1996.
Mwinyi’s tenure was characterized by endeavors to foster unity, stability, and development in Tanzania.
His demise creates a void in the nation’s political fabric, yet his legacy of devoted service will endure for generations to come.