PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday awarded the Order of the Union medals for distinguished service to various political leaders and security officials.

She issued the medals of recognition at a ceremony tied with the launching of two books on the 60 years of the union, and the role of Office of the Vice President during the period.

The president urged persistent promotion of peace and national unity at the moment of the august anniversary, noting that peace and national unity are key pillars behind the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

They are also the key rationale behind the move to unite, she said, saying the books were part of the urge to keep and record the country’s history, a task that belongs to every Tanzanian.

The work of authors of the two books was commendable, she said, observing that the book on the VP Office ‘”gives me courage that the work which we did during my vice presidency has been recorded in a book that generations will read.”

Speaking earlier, Vice President Dr Philip Mpango said the book will serve as a memory and reference to those taking up that office at present and in the future.

Former president Jakaya Kikwete and the late president John Magufuli were among those cited for the medals, the highest recognitions for outstanding achievement and service to the United Republic.

Others are former vice presidents Dr Ali Mohammed Shein, Dr Mohammed Gharib Bilal, the late former prime minister Edward Lowassa, ex-premier Fredrick Sumaye and on one of his predecessors John Malecela.

Top security officials cited were Gen. John Nkunda - the chief of defence forces, Inspector General of Police Camilius Wambura and Tanzania Intelligence and Security Service (TISS) director general, Ambassador Ali Idi Siwa, along with  the Immigration Department commissioner general 

There were also citations for medals of bravery, perseverance and endurance, exemplary service and of long service and ethical conduct. Others were the Union Medal, the Tanganyika Independence Medal, along with the Medal of the United Republic.

Specific defence force medals were for long service at the army’s 40th anniversary, 50th anniversary medal and Medal of the Revolution.