Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has taken a 90-day leave from office following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir. The leave commenced on September 7, the same day Ameir passed away, as the Tanzanian President takes time to mourn and observe the required period of bereavement.
In a statement issued on September 8, Chief Secretary Moses Kusiluka said government affairs would continue to be managed in accordance with the law during Samia’s absence. Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi and Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba will oversee government responsibilities, with further communication to be issued by the relevant authorities when necessary.
Hafidh Ameir, who was born on January 1, 1946, died at 8am on September 7 while undergoing treatment at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. Vice President Ndejembi said Ameir had been receiving medical care for a heart condition. The late first gentleman was buried on September 7 in Kazimkazi, in southern Zanzibar’s South Unguja region, where his family home is located.
A number of regional leaders have expressed their condolences to Tanzania’s First Family following the death. Among them was Kenyan President William Ruto, who joined other leaders in mourning Ameir and honouring his life and contribution to the family and country.
