Deep emotion, glowing tributes as Charles Hillary laid to rest

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Hussein Mwinyi yesterday led government leaders, dignitaries and hundreds of mourners in paying their final respects to the former Chief Government Spokesperson for the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and Director of Communications at State House, the late Charles Martin Hillary (66).

The farewell ceremony, held at Mapinduzi Square in Kisonge, Michenzani, was marked by deep emotion and glowing tributes to a man described as joyful, committed and patriotic.

The body of the late Charles Hillary was later taken to the Anglican Church in Mkunazini, Stone Town, for last prayers before being laid to rest at the Mwanakwerekwe Christian Cemetery.

At Michenzani, President Mwinyi described the late Hillary as a cheerful and hardworking individual who left a lasting impression on all who worked with him.

“Whenever you were with him, no matter how heavy your thoughts were, he would find a way to make you laugh. His sense of humour and ability to ease tension made him a joy to be around, even during the most stressful times,” Dr Mwinyi said.

He praised Hillary’s long and distinguished career in media, which spanned more than four decades, including roles at Radio Tanzania, Radio One, ITV, Azam Media, BBC Swahili and Deutsche Welle (DW).

“Charles (Hillary) was a dedicated professional and a patriot. He responded to the call to serve in the eighth phase government with honour. Through his work, especially in communicating the implementation of the CCM manifesto, he served his country with excellence,” the president noted.

Dr Mwinyi also reflected on a personal regret: “If there’s one thing I wish I had done more, it’s telling Hillary how much we appreciated him. We’ve lost a good man, cheerful, diligent and immensely talented. But this is God’s will. We will all walk the same path one day.”

He assured the family of his continued support and pledged to honour Hillary’s legacy, particularly his wishes regarding the care of his loved ones.

Delivering condolences on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Political Advisor Haji Omar Kheir expressed deep sympathy to President Mwinyi and Hillary’s family, calling the loss significant for the nation.

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Mr Haji noted Hillary’s commanding oratory skills, especially during the presentation of the CCM manifesto report in Dodoma, where his eloquence left a lasting impression on party members and the public alike.

Deputy Director of Presidential Communications, Mr Raqueh Mohammed, speaking on behalf of the State House staff, described Hillary as a bridge-builder and respected colleague, who worked across generations with ease and warmth.

The Chief Government Spokesperson Mr Gerson Msigwa, remembered Hillary as a disciplined, ethical journalist who exemplified teamwork and patriotism.

“Charles (Hillary) was always collaborative and full of joy. He brought people together and brought light wherever he went,” said Msigwa, urging fellow public servants and journalists to emulate the late’s joyful spirit and work ethic.

Ms Fatma Hamad Rajab, Permanent Secretary at the Zanzibar Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, called Hillary’s death a major loss to the media industry and the Kiswahilispeaking world. In a moving tribute, Charles’s daughter, Feith Charles Hillary, recounted his 41-year career, which began on June 9, 1980, at Radio Tanzania.

His journey took him to BBC Swahili in 2006, DW and later Azam Media, before joining the Zanzibar Government in 2021 as Director of Presidential Communications.

He was appointed Chief Government Spokesperson in February 2023 and served until his passing on May 11, 2025, at Mloganzila Hospital in Dar es Salaam. She expressed the family’s gratitude to President Mwinyi and the entire government for the dignity and respect shown to her father.

Media organisations where Charles worked, including BBC Swahili, ITV, Radio One, Azam Media, DW, TBC and ZBC, issued tributes celebrating his humour, professionalism and mentorship.

Many vowed to honour his legacy through continued excellence in journalism.

Veteran journalist Tido Muhando admired Hillary’s broadcasting excellence and described him as patriotic and family-oriented.