Mwinyi: Hilary’s passing a reminder to cherish workers

Unguja. The passing of Charles Hilary has highlighted the importance of recognising workers while they are still alive, said Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi.

At a farewell ceremony on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Mapinduzi Square, Dr Mwinyi expressed regret for not informing Hilary directly of how much he valued his professionalism, patriotism, and dedication to duty.

“I deeply regret not telling Charles earlier that he was an outstanding employee, a patriot and a responsible public servant,” Dr Mwinyi stated. “He was one of the most committed and capable staffers in our government.”

The event, attended by government officials, colleagues, family, and friends, honoured Hilary, the former Director of Presidential Communications and Chief Government Spokesperson for the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, who passed away on May 11, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.

“This tragedy offers us a lesson,” Dr Mwinyi remarked. “Let us praise our employees while they are still with us. We should not wait until someone has died to speak of their contributions.”

He also pledged to honour a personal request from Hilary regarding his family. Although he had never met Hilary’s wife and children in person, the President mentioned he knew of them through their conversations.

“He shared a lot about his family. I won’t go into details, but he requested me concerning them. I want to assure you that I will honour it in recognition of the dedicated service he gave,” Dr Mwinyi said.

Describing Hilary as hardworking and cheerful, Dr Mwinyi noted that his contributions to Zanzibar’s government had been significant and that his absence would be deeply felt.

He recalled personally inviting Hilary to take up the position of Director of Presidential Communications at the State House in Zanzibar, alongside his role as Government Spokesperson.

The government spokesperson of Tanzania, Mr Gerson Msigwa, paid tribute to Hilary, describing him as a model public servant who gave his all, regardless of status or age.

Ms Fatma Hamad, the permanent secretary at the ministry of Information, Youth, Culture, and Sports in Zanzibar, highlighted Hilary’s advocacy for Kiswahili both within and outside Tanzania.

Mr Raqeey Mohammed, a communications officer at the State House in Zanzibar, remembered him as a key figure known for his professionalism, good humour, and generosity.

“Charles was always cheerful, even outside the workplace. He often stressed the importance of openness and affection among colleagues,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Presidential Political Advisor Haji Omar Kheri described Hilary’s death as a significant loss to the Zanzibar government.

Religious leaders and mourners paid glowing tributes to the late Hilary, describing him as a man whose presence brought joy to many and urging Tanzanians to build a culture of appreciating people while they are still alive.

Bishop James Almasi of the Anglican Church in Masasi Diocese noted that Mr Hilary was appreciated not only in the media industry but also by people beyond it, who enjoyed his distinctive voice through various broadcasts.

“Charles had a voice that resonated with people from all walks of life,” Bishop Almasi remarked. “His presence brought joy regardless of age or social status. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, the media fraternity, Christians at Mkunazini church, and the Zanzibar Government.”

Bishop Almasi reflected: “If his late mother were alive, she would have heard all the praise being spoken about her son. Many are born, but not all bring happiness to those around them.”

“God brought Charles into this world for a purpose — to be an example and a source of joy. Remembering him is a blessing because he made others happy,” he added.

Bishop Almasi also urged the public to value time and use it wisely, just as Hilary did. “He respected time and people. Let us also use our time wisely,” he said.

Emmanuel Masoud extended condolences to Hilary’s family and the Zanzibar Government, acknowledging his contributions at both the community and church levels.

“He served with commitment, and his loss is truly significant,” he remarked.

Speaking on behalf of Mkunazini church, Godwin Masoud noted that the church had lost a key member who inspired others in their spiritual journey and supported community problem-solving.

“Charles was a devout Christian known for his honesty and dedication. When issues arose in the church, he offered sound advice and sought peaceful solutions,” Mr Masoud said.