AfricaPress-Tanzania: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has assured Tanzanians that the government will continue to honour and cherish the legacy left behind by the immediate former President, the late John Magufuli.
Besides, the PM encouraged the spirit of cooperation, unity, love and hard work among Tanzanians, assuring President Samia Suluhu Hassan that everything will go as planned.
Mr Majaliwa observed during the burial service of Dr John Magufuli held yesterday in his home land of Chato, Geita Region that the funeral schedule went as planned, and the goal of granting a grand farewell to the beloved former President had been achieved. He extended recognition to all Tanzanians for turning up in huge numbers along the roads and all places where the body passed to pay their last respects to the late former President.
“Today (Friday), as we are going to put to rest our beloved Dr Magufuli, we would like to thank everyone, particularly Tanzanians for remaining calm throughout the entire time since the death announcement. The Premier used the opportunity to send his deepest condolences to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the family of Dr Magufuli for this huge loss.
Mr Majaliwa notified President Samia that he had executed her directive to make sure the doctors responsible for the treatment of Dr Magufuli’s mother, who has been ill for the past two years, continue with treatment until she recovers.
He expressed appreciation to the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar for effectively taking part in all the funeral and burial preparations. According to him, the solidarity which has been shown from day one to the burial is very encouraging for the existing unity and the huge tragedy facing the country. Besides, he extended recognition to fellow national funeral committee members consisting of ministers and permanent secretaries for coordinating all the preparations.
He also recognized his counterpart from Zanzibar, the Second Vice-President Hemed Suleiman Abdullah, who is the co-chairperson of the national funeral committee. Other members of the committee include the Chief Secretaries from both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar among others who were present throughout the entire time.
Equally, he extended his appreciation to all the committees which were formed in Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Urban-West Region in Zanzibar, Mwanza and Chato in Geita Region where the body of Dr Magufuli was taken for the residents of those areas to pay their respects.
In line to the list, the PM applauded the good work done by security organs, saying even during difficult times they exercised wisdom instead of using force on all the people to mourn and say their goodbyes peacefully.
“Please convey our deepest gratitude to all our fellow countrymen from the forces; they have done a commendable job,” he said.
He said recognition also goes to religious leaders, the Tanzania Scouts Association (TSA), the Chama cha Mapinduzi Youth Wing, Red Cross, the militia as well as doctors and nurses from across the regions.
“The contribution of religious leaders from day one in praying for the nation, the journeys and motorcades has gone well and everything went smoothly until the burial ceremony. “As a usual custom, the government pledges to continue working hand in hand with all religious leaders,” stressed the PM.
He acknowledges the media for their timely updates from day one, saying their reportage has enabled many citizens to follow all the events, and musicians for composing songs of mourning which have been of great comfort. He acknowledged the support received from family members who were always willing to give their support whenever it was needed.
On top of all, the PM thanked Tanzanians for their support, and dignitaries from various countries for coming to mourn with Tanzanians during the state funeral on Monday.
He pointed out that 17 leaders, including nine Heads of State, two Vice Presidents and others were present in Dodoma. “We consider this as a very good gesture in maintaining good relations between our countries…all the addresses offered comfort and peace, please convey our gratitude to your people,” the PM maintained.
