Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has declared seven days of national mourning in honour of the Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli who died on Wednesday night. – By John Mutiso.
“In testimony of the high esteem in which the people of Kenya hold President John Pombe Magufuli, the Republic of Kenya will observe a period of seven days of national mourning,” said President Kenyatta.
Uhuru who addressed the nation at State House, Nairobi on Thursday morning also directed that all Kenyan and East African Community flags in Kenya and across all its diplomatic missions abroad will be flown at half-mast during the mourning period.
“As a symbol of our enduring respect for the fallen President, as well as our solemn solidarity with the Nation and People of the United Republic of Tanzania; the Flag of the East African Community and the Flag of the Republic of Kenya shall be flown at half-mast at all Public Buildings and Public Grounds, and wherever else throughout the entire territory of the Republic of Kenya and at all of Kenya’s Diplomatic Missions abroad;” he added.
President Kenyatta who is also the chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), in his message of condolence eulogised Magufuli as an illustrious leader whose vision, passion, and immense leadership propelled the Nation of Tanzania forward and was a pan-Africanist.
“Magufuli was a champion of Pan-Africanism. I have lost a friend, a colleague, and a visionary ally; whom I worked with closely, particularly on our commitment to forge lasting bonds between Kenya and Tanzania. Africa and the world have lost a leader who steered the EAC and the continent,” he said.
Mr. Kenyatta also sent his condolences to the First Lady of Tanzania Janet Magufuli after the death of his husband John Magufuli.
“On behalf of the government and people of Kenya I convey our sincere condolences to the First Lady of Tanzania, Janet Magufuli,” President Kenyatta condoled.
