President William Ruto has led the country in sending condolences to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.
In a statement on Monday, Ruto said he had received the news with “deep sorrow”, extending condolences on behalf of the Kenyan government and people, First Lady Rachel Ruto, his family, and himself.
“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” the President said.
He said Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning and prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
“Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief,” Ruto said.
Ruto also prayed for Hassan’s eternal rest and asked God to comfort President Samia and her family as they mourned the loss.
“May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest,” he said.
Hafidh Hassan, Tanzania’s First Gentleman, died on Monday, September 7, at around 08:00 at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had been receiving treatment for heart disease, according to Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Honourable Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Honourable Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan,” Ndejembi said in an announcement to Tanzanians.
Funeral arrangements have already begun in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, according to Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi.
“I extend my condolences to the Honourable President, his family, relatives and friends, and all Tanzanians on this loss,” he said.
The announcement is expected to be followed by further details on the funeral programme and other arrangements as the country mourns Hassan alongside President Samia and the wider First Family.