News Break
The Republic of Tanzania mourns one of their greatest icon and former President Benjamin Mkapa.The news of his death was relayed by Tanzanian President Pombe John Magufuli.
While addressing the nation through Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) on July 24th, President Magufuli announced that Mr. Mkapa passed on at Dares Salaam hospital where he was receiving treatment. “I call upon the citizens of Tanzania to receive the sad news of his death and to pray for him.We will release more information as events unfold but Mkapa is no longer with us,” said Magufuli.
He will be remembered not only in Tanzania but the entire East African region for his contributions and progressive leadership.For instance, he spearheaded anti-corruption campaigns in Tanzania which made him win elections, although at some point he was criticized for his failure to effectively crack down on the corrupt individuals.He also participated in the Burundi peace talk between the opposition and the government.
Mr. Mkapa is quite significant with Kenya’s political history and will be remembered for his efforts to negotiate power-broking deal between President Kibaki and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during the 2007/2008 post election violence.
He died at 81 years old having led Tanzania from 1995 to 2005 before handing over power to Jakaya Kikwete.Tanzania now has 7 days to mourn the late Mkapa as declared by President Magufuli
