Africa-Press – Tanzania. DAR ES SALAAM: FORMER President Ali Hassan Mwinyi, aged 98, has passed away.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan made the announcement yesterday on a televised programme on the national broadcaster TBC 1, stating that Mzee Mwinyi died while receiving treatment at Mzena Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
The President declared a seven-day period of national mourning beginning today in honour of Mwinyi, who was affectionately known as ‘Mzee Rukhsa.’
President Samia also ordered that the national flag be flown at half-mast and stated that further details about the funeral arrangements would be provided later.
Dr Samia revealed that Mr Mwinyi will be laid to rest tomorrow in Ugunja, Zanzibar.
She extended her condolences to the family of the deceased, as well as to his relatives, friends and all Tanzanians.
Mzee Mwinyi’s passing was met with shock and sadness by Tanzanians.
Abbas Mwalimu, a seasoned analyst of politics and diplomacy, reflected on Mzee Mwinyi’s significant role in shaping Tanzania’s path.
“He was the man who opened up Tanzania,” Mwalimu remarked, highlighting Mzee Mwinyi’s crucial role during a transformative period characterised by global changes and internal reforms.
“During his presidency from 1985 to 1995, Mzee Mwinyi guided Tanzania through a period of significant changes. As the world witnessed the decline of the Soviet Union’s power and the emergence of globalisation, Mzee Mwinyi recognised the need for Tanzania to adapt,” he added.
He introduced a new set of economic policies, encapsulated in his philosophy of “Mzee wa Rukhsa,” which aimed to liberalise and revitalise Tanzania’s economy.
Furthermore, Mwalimu stated that Mzee Mwinyi revitalised Tanzanian diplomacy, particularly in economic spheres, earning praise for his skill in fostering international relations conducive to economic growth.
Mr Mwalimu also noted that Mzee Mwinyi would be remembered for his role in allowing the introduction of multi-partyism and the liberalisation of the economy, which marked a significant shift in Tanzanian politics, paving the way for a more diverse and dynamic political landscape.
However, Mzee Mwinyi’s legacy goes beyond policy reforms; he embodied principles of truth, responsibility, integrity and patriotism.
His selfless decision to resign from office in the 1970s, amidst dire prison conditions in Tabora where overcrowding led to fatalities, underscored his unwavering commitment to ethical governance and human rights.
Moreover, Mzee Mwinyi exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and reconciliation, transcending divisions within the Tanzanian union.
His tolerance and willingness to engage with diverse perspectives fostered unity and harmony, laying the groundwork for President Samia’s “4R” philosophy of Reconciliation, Resilience, Reform, and Rebuild.
Mr Mwalimu emphasised that beyond his political achievements, Mzee Mwinyi’s qualities left a lasting impact.
His participation in marathons symbolised his resilience and determination, qualities that resonated with Tanzanians of all ages.
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