Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday described late Tanzanian leader, John Pombe Magufuli as a true Pan-Africanist whose works will be remembered among other great African leaders.

Magufuli, 61, died on Wednesday following heart complications, according to Tanzanian Vice President Samia Hassan.

“President Magufuli’s untimely demise has robbed the people of Tanzania and the rest of the African continent of an exemplary father and astute leader,” President Mnangagwa said.

“The legacy of the late President Magufuli is not limited to his untiring efforts to promote development and peace in Tanzania but to the roles he played as a Pan-Africanist beyond the borders of his country.”

He said the late Magufuli would be remembered for his staunch backing for calls for the lifting of illegal Western sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.

“Zimbabwe will remember him for his unwavering support for the regional call for the lifting of the illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe, and it was under his leadership as the Chairperson of SADC that the region set aside October 25 as the day for SADC to stand in solidarity in calling for the removal of the sanctions,” President
Mnangagwa said.

“His principled and selfless stance endeared him to all the people of Zimbabwe. His dedication to duty and achievements will forever be remembered alongside those of other great African leaders.”

Tanzania declared 14 days of mourning following the demise of Magufuli, who had last been seen in public on February 27 amid speculation about his whereabouts and health.

VP Hassan, takes over as President to serve the remainder of the five-year term which Magufuli had just began serving after winning re-election for a second five-year term by a landslide in October last year.
New Ziana