Uhuru mourns ex-Tanzania president Mwinyi, Lenayapa

Uhuru also mourned former State House Comptroller Lawrence Lenayapa; They both died on Thursday.

In Summary
  • Uhuru described the late Mwinyi as a leader whose presidency played a significant role in the liberalisation of the Tanzanian economy.
  • Uhuru remembered Lenayapa as a dedicated career civil servant who carried out his duties with unwavering commitment.
Former Tanzanian President Hassan Mwinyi and former State House Comptroller Lawrence Lenayapa.
Former Tanzanian President Hassan Mwinyi and former State House Comptroller Lawrence Lenayapa.
Image: Office of the Fourth President/X

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his messages of condolences to the families of former Tanzanian President Hassan Mwinyi and former State House Comptroller Lawrence Lenayapa.

In his message, Uhuru described late Mwinyi as a leader whose presidency played a significant role in the liberalisation of the Tanzanian economy.

This, he said, coupled with his social policies greatly improved education and healthcare systems in Tanzania.

He said that Mwinyi ardently pursued regional cooperation and reconciliation, playing a key role in successfully mediating conflicts within the East African region.

"Hassan Mwinyi is widely acknowledged as a prominent figure in Tanzanian history, renowned for his significant contributions to politics, economic development, and regional diplomacy. May the Almighty God grant strength to the family of the late President and bring solace to the people of Tanzania as they cope with this profound loss," Uhuru said.

The fourth President also condoled with the family of Lenayapa, who served as the Ambassador of Kenya to the Netherlands at the time of his death.

Uhuru remembered Lenayapa as a dedicated career civil servant who carried out his duties with unwavering commitment.

He served as comptroller from 2013 to 2018 (During Uhuru's first term as president), after which he was reassigned to the Netherlands as ambassador.

"While at State House, Mr. Lenayapa oversaw the implementation of various development projects, in addition to serving as the general administrator for all State Houses and Lodges across the country.

"Prior to his role as comptroller, Lenayapa had served as the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources. He also held the position of District Commissioner in Baringo and Kiambu regions," A statement from Uhuru's office said.

Lenayapa also held the position of Permanent Representative of Kenya to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

The retired president prayed for God's comfort as they come to terms with their deaths.

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