Former Tanzanian Chief of Defence Forces, Venance Mabeyo, has revealed details about John Magufuli’s final hours on March 17, 2021, during his hospitalization.
Magufuli’s Last Wishes
In an exclusive interview with Daily News Digital, Mabeyo recounted a private conversation with the late president. Magufuli reportedly expressed doubts about his recovery and wished to return home.
“He called me and expressed doubts about his survival, saying he was not going to recover and asking to be taken back home,” Mabeyo disclosed.
Mabeyo emphasized that while he respected Magufuli’s wishes, medical decisions were the responsibility of healthcare professionals. Reports suggest Magufuli was treated at Nairobi Hospital in Kenya before being transferred back to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, due to severe cardiac and respiratory complications, requiring intubation.
Announcement of His Passing
Informing the public about Magufuli’s death was a sensitive task for Tanzania’s top security officials. Mabeyo recalled,
“Three heads of security organs were present. We wondered how the news was going to be broken to the public.”
After consultations, then-Vice President Samia Suluhu Hassan decided to address the nation, ensuring Magufuli’s family was informed first. She subsequently assumed the presidency following Tanzania’s constitutional protocols before his funeral on March 26, 2021.
Legacy and Tributes
Magufuli, nicknamed the “Bulldozer” for his assertive governance style, died at 61 after more than five years in office. The government confirmed he passed due to a heart condition, despite speculation about COVID-19. Samia Suluhu honored him on the third anniversary of his death, tweeting in Swahili:
“Tarehe kama ya leo miaka mitatu iliyopita tuliondokewa na aliyekuwa Rais wa Awamu ya Tano, Hayati Dkt. John Pombe Magufuli… Tuendelee kumuombea kwa Mwenyezi Mungu ampe pumziko jema…”
Translation:
“On this day three years ago, we lost former President John Pombe Magufuli. Let’s continue to pray to God to give him a good rest. As always, the government will continue to honor Dr. Magufuli for his leadership and the projects he initiated.”
Magufuli’s leadership continues to be remembered for the development projects and initiatives he championed during his tenure.
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