Relatives and neighbours comfort Ms Careen Matumbo (centre), mother of former Kilindi MP Beatrice Shelukindo, in Arusha yesterday following the death of her daughter on Saturday. PHOTO | FILBERT RWEYEMAMU
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A State House statement quoted President Magufuli saying Ms Shelukindo was a brave leader who went out of her way to safeguard the people’s interests regardless of the circumstances.
Dar/Kilindi. President John Magufuli has sent condolences to the Speaker of the National Assembly following the death of former Kilindi MP Beatrice Shelukindo.
A State House statement quoted President Magufuli saying Ms Shelukindo was a brave leader who went out of her way to safeguard the people’s interests regardless of the circumstances.
“The nation has lost one of its bravest leaders, who tirelessly fought for the people’s interests irrespective of the circumstances,” Dr Magufuli said.
Ms Shelukindo, who was also former a member of the East African Legislative Assembly (Eala), died on Saturday in Arusha after a long illness. A family member told The Citizen from Arusha yesterday that Shelukindo would be buried either on Wednesday or Thursday.
“It all depends on when burial arrangements will be completed, but I can confirm that she will be buried in Arusha,” a son of the late politician said.
Family members, friends and relatives have been gathering in Olorien, Arusha, since Ms Shelukindo passed away on Saturday evening.
Ms Shelukindo gained reputation as a gifted and passionate debater during her time in Eala and the National Assembly.
She was an Eala member from 2001 to 2005, when she was elected Kilindi MP. She was re-elected in 2010, but was unable to vie for the seat again in last year’s General Election due to poor health and was succeeded by Mr Omar Kigua.
The late Shelukindo was also a member of the CCM National Executive Committee.
CCM Tanga regional secretary Shija Othman said the death was a big blow to the party.
He said the deceased was survived by three children.
