Messages of condolence from across the African region continue to pour in for the late Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli who succumbed to heart complications on Wednesday.
President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned Magufuli as an illustrious leader and a champion of pan-Africanism, adding that in the passing of the Tanzanian Head of State he had lost a friend, colleague and visionary ally.
“On behalf of the government and people of Kenya, I convey our sincere condolences to the First lady of Tanzania Janeth Magufuli, their children, the entire Magufuli family and indeed affirm our deep solidarity with the government and people of Tanzania during this challenging time. Tanzania remains in our thoughts and prayers,” said Kenyatta.
Retired President Mwai Kibaki, in a statement to newsrooms, said: “To his family, friends, Tanzania as a whole and East Africa at large, I convey my message of condolence and pray for the Almighty God’s comfort as we all come to terms with this irremediable
bereavement.”
ODM leader Raila Odinga, who was close friend of Magufuli, remembered the late Tanzanian President as a close friend who there for him at the most difficult and painful moments.
“It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of my friend, President John Magufuli. He and his family have been close friends for a long time. He’s been by my side at my most difficult and painful moments. My condolences to his family and the people of Tanzania,” said Odinga.