Tanzania’s Former President Benjamin Mkapa Dies, Presidency Says
Tanzania’s Former President Benjamin Mkapa Dies, Presidency Says
DAR ES SALAAM — Tanzania’s former President Benjamin Mkapa, who served from 1995 to 2005, died in the early hours of Friday, President John Magufuli said in a statement.
Former President of Tanzania (1995-2005) H.E Benjamin William Mkapa passed away not many hours ago. Our thoughts and prayers with our East African brothers and sisters in Tanzania during this time. We all will have our turn you know…This is why I preach legacy building. pic.twitter.com/kj1sKQJVBZ
— Samson Kasumba-Mulun (@SamsonKasumba) July 24, 2020
Mkapa, the East African nation’s third president who led several regional peace mediation efforts in office and afterwards, died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Dar es Salaam, Magufuli said, without giving more details.
He declared a seven day mourning period, during which all flags will be flown at half-mast.
“Magufuli asks all Tanzanians to remain calm, patient and united during this difficult time,” a statement from his office said.
Mkapa, 81, also served as an ambassador, minister and key official of the ruling CCM party, Magufuli said.
