Kenyan President Expresses Condolences Over the Passing of Former Tanzanian PM Edward Lowassa

In a solemn announcement, President William Ruto has extended his heartfelt condolences to the people of Tanzania following the demise of former Prime Minister Edward Lowassa. The veteran politician, aged 70, passed away on February 10, 2024, while undergoing treatment at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute in Dar es Salaam.

President Ruto, in a statement released on Sunday, paid tribute to Lowassa as a respected and progressive leader who dedicated his efforts to the well-being of the people of Tanzania and the broader East African Region.

“We honor the distinguished life that he led, his work, and the rich legacy that he leaves behind. May God grant the family, President Samia Suluhu, and the people of The United Republic of Tanzania strength in this moment of grief. Buriani Ndugu Lowassa,” expressed President Ruto.

Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango officially announced Lowassa’s passing on national television, TBC, on Saturday.

Lowassa, who served as Tanzania’s Prime Minister from 2005 to 2008 under President Jakaya Kikwete, made history as the first Prime Minister to be compelled to resign from office.

The late Prime Minister, despite facing challenges in his political journey, notably being the first forced resignation from the position, continued to contribute to Tanzania’s political landscape.

Born on August 24, 1953, Lowassa, the fourth child of herdsman Ngoyai Lowassa, had a storied career in parliamentary and government affairs.

He previously served as Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office during President Ali Hassan Mwinyi’s second term and held various ministerial positions, including Minister for State in the Vice President’s Office for Environment and Poverty in 1997 and Minister of Water and Livestock Development in 2000.

Lowassa’s political journey culminated in a presidential bid in 2015, running as an opposition candidate on the Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) ticket after the ruling CCM failed to select him as its candidate.

Despite facing political challenges, his contributions to Tanzanian politics are remembered with respect and recognition.