John Mnyika

Chama Cha Demokrasia Na Maendeleo (Chadema) has canceled its political campaigns in Lindi region which were expected to end tomorrow following the death of one of its founder members Bob Makani.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam yesterday, the party’s Director for Communication and Publications, John Mnyika said the party’s officials who were Lindi have returned to join other members mourning the death of Makani (76) who passed away on Saturday night in Dar es Salaam.

“The party flags will fly at half-mast for seven days,” said Mnyika.

The Communication director said in Dar es Salaam yesterday the opposition party was working with the family of the late Bob Makani to organise funeral activities.

He explained that Chadema will honour him by adopting and internalising his wisdom in the quest to improve the party so that it can realise its gooals.”

“We take this opportunity to join the family of late Makani during this difficult moment by collaborating with them to ensure our old man rests in peace. This is a big blow, not to Chadema, but all Tanzanians,” he said.

Mohamed Nyanga Makani, son of the late Makani said last respects will be held today at 11am at Karimjee Hall, after which the body would be transported to Shinyanga for burial scheduled for Tuesday at his home village of Kilandoto.

He said his father was suffering from heart and bladder problems. He leaves behind seven children and two widows, adding that he will be buried in accordance with the Islamic faith. The deceased body is preserved at the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH).

Meanwhile President Jakaya Kikwete yesterday sent condolences to the family of the late Makani.

In an official statement issued by the State House yesterday, Kikwete said he was saddened by the news of Makani’s death who served in Tanzania with wisdom and patriotism in different positions, including the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Tanzania.

He said “I have received with sadness the death of Makani who I was informed died last night at Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam. I knew him well during his life. He was a good public servant who fought for the rights of the people, in all positions in public service or politics.”

"I extend my sincere condolences to the family during this difficult time of the passing away of your beloved, your father, your grandfather. I understand your pain during this period, but I pray to God to give you patience because all is God's will. I join you in praying to the Almighty to rest the soul of the deceased Makani in peace, Amen,” he said.