Joseph Isangura
The body of former Tanzanian Prime Minister and First Vice President Cleopa David Msuya arrived this morning at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), marking the beginning of a state-led farewell to one of the country’s most distinguished public servants.
Msuya, who passed away on May 7, 2025, at Mzena Hospital in Dar es Salaam, was 94 years old. He had been receiving treatment at the facility known for serving prominent leaders and senior officials.
Today’s solemn arrival was followed by a ceremony at the Cleopa David Msuya Grounds, located in his home district of Mwanga in the Kilimanjaro Region. Mourners, including local leaders and citizens, gathered to pay their last respects to the statesman whose political career helped shape modern Tanzania.
Tomorrow, on May 13, Msuya will be laid to rest in his birthplace, Usangi, with the funeral to be presided over by President Samia Suluhu Hassan. The ceremony will include religious rites organized by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT), along with full military honors.
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Msuya is remembered for his calm demeanor and technocratic approach during key leadership roles, particularly during Tanzania’s transition from a socialist economy to market-based reforms. He served as Prime Minister twice—from 1980 to 1983 and again from 1994 to 1995—and held multiple ministerial portfolios throughout his career.
He was part of the inner circle of independence-era leaders under the late President Julius Nyerere, and his influence continued through subsequent administrations. His legacy includes a strong stance on economic stability, public accountability, and peaceful politics.
The Tanzanian government has declared a national mourning period until May 13, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast across public institutions. In a tribute, President Hassan described Msuya as “a pillar of wisdom and patriotism whose leadership helped unite the nation and build lasting institutions.”
