Tanzanian President John Magufuli dies aged 61

Tanzanian President John Magufuli has died of heart disease at the age of 61, the country’s Vice President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced on Wednesday.

“It is with deep regret that I inform you that today on the 17th of March, 2021 at 6:00 pm we lost our brave leader, the President of the Republic of Tanzania, John Pombe Magufuli,” said Hassan in an announcement.

Hassan said President Magufuli was admitted to the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute earlier where he was treated for chronic atrial fibrillation, a heart condition he has suffered for more than 10 years.

According to Tanzania’s Constitution, Vice President Hassan shall be sworn in and become the president for the unexpired period of the term of five years.

John Magufuli was re-elected as the president of Tanzania in October 2020.

Hassan also announced 14-day national mourning following the death of Magufuli.

During the 14 days of mourning all national flags will fly at half-mast, said Hassan, adding that funeral arrangements will be announced later.

ARR