Samia Suluhu Hassan to be Sworn is as First Female Tanzanian President Following Passing of John Magufuli

Faizel Patel – 18/03/2021

Vice President Samia Suluhu Hassan will be sworn in as Tanzania’s new President following the passing of 61-year-old President John Magufuli.

Suluhu Hassan on Wednesday announced the death of Magufuli on state television.

She said Magufuli died of a “heart condition” at a Dar es Salaam hospital where he was receiving treatment.

Magufuli, one of Africa’s most prominent coronavirus sceptics, had not been seen in public since 27 February sparking speculation that he had contracted COVID-19.

Government officials had denied Magufuli had fallen ill and claimed that he was working normally and citizens should ignore rumours from outside the country.

Suluhu will lead for the remainder of Magufuli’s term until 2025 and becomes the first female President in Tanzania and East Africa.

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