How Tanzanians mourn ex-premier Edward Lowassa
Edward Lowassa. PHOTO | FILE
What you need to know:
- President Hassan says she told Lowassa’s family that the nation stands with them and that during this challenging moment they should continue relying on God and find solace in His words, particularly in the Book of Job 1:21
Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has led Tanzanians in mourning the passing of former Prime Minister Edward Lowassa.
Writing on her X account, formerly known as Twitter, President Hassan said she has received with sadness reports of the death of the retired Prime Minister, Edward Ngoyai Lowassa.
“The Honourable Lowassa dedicated over 35 years of his life to serving our nation, beginning his illustrious career with the Tanzania People’s Defence Force, followed by significant roles within the ruling party, CCM, the Parliament, and the Cabinet, where he served as both a minister and Prime Minister,” reads part of her post.
The late ex-Premier died on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), according to a death announcement by Vice President Philip Mpango. Dr Mpango attributed Lowassa’s demise to a protracted illness marked by lung complications, stomach ulcers, and hypertension.
“We have lost a brave leader who was fully committed and who made sacrifices for our country. My condolences to his widow, Regina Lowassa, children (Honourable Monduli Constituency lawmaker, Fredrick Lowassa and your siblings), relatives, friends and all Tanzanians for the huge loss,” President Hassan wrote in her X account.
President Hassan further wrote that she told Lowassa’s family that the nation stands with them and that during this challenging moment they should continue relying on God and find solace in His words, particularly in the Book of Job 1:21. May God grant eternal rest to his soul. Amen.”
The minister for Information, Communication and Information Technology, Nape Nnauye, recalled his encounter with Lowassa after the 2015 General Election, in which Lowassa expressed admiration for Nnauye's conviction in his beliefs despite political differences. “Rest in peace, our leader,” writes Mr Nnauye in his X account.
ACT-Wazalendo leader Zitto Kabwe posted on his X account; “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Edward Ngoyai Lowasa, former Prime Minister of Tanzania. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. May God grant them strength and surround them with sincere solidarity. My condolences also extend to the residents of Monduli and Arusha.”
Former Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Lazaro Nyalandu expressed his sorrow over the passing of Lowassa, extending his condolences to the bereaved family and fellow Tanzanians. “May his soul rest in eternal peace. Amen!” he wrote in his X account.
Former CCM Secretary General Daniel Chongolo shared his sadness on his X account upon hearing the news of former Prime Minister Edward Lowassa's demise. “My condolences to the family and Tanzanians for losing an outstanding politician who served in different capacities in the government and in the party. May he rest in peace! Amen."
Former Ubungo Mayor Boniface Jacob took to his X account to reflect on Lowassa's significant impact, describing him as a political giant and a source of wisdom in politics and leadership. Jacob conveyed his condolences to Lowassa's loved ones, family, and friends, highlighting the enriching experience of interacting with Lowassa and the wisdom gained from him.
“For the lucky ones who came close to him, we have been enriched with the bits of wisdom he shared with us. I send my condolences to all his loved ones, family and friends,” Mr Jacob, a Chadema senior cadre, added.
