Gone but not forgotten

• PM labels late Lukuvi as a trusted advisor

IDODI: THE fallen veteran politician, William Lukuvi (71) has been laid to rest yesterday at his home village of Idodi, as national leaders pledged to carry forward his legacy of selfless service and people-centred leadership.

The late Lukuvi died while serving as Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities), a position that showed his continued commitment to national service.

Over the years, he built a distinguished political career, serving as Member of Parliament for Isimani Constituency for 31 years, while also holding various ministerial positions under successive administrations.

He passed away last Wednesday after suffering a heart attack at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital.

Speaking during the burial ceremony, Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said the nation has lost a selfless leader at a critical time, as preparations for the national budget session intensify.

“We have lost him at a difficult moment, but we must remain united and continue to draw strength from the words of comfort shared since his passing,” he said.

Furthermore, Dr Nchemba said that the government will continue to stand with the people of Isimani and ensure that development projects initiated by the late Lukuvi are carried forward.

In addition, he said the late Lukuvi was a disciplined public servant who consistently prioritised the interests of his people, saying that his exemplary service made him a trusted advisor and a pillar within both the government and the ruling party.

Similarly, Speaker of the National Assembly, Mussa Azzan Zungu, said Parliament has lost a highly capable and visionary leader whose contribution will remain part of the institution’s history.

“His leadership strengthened Parliament and we will continue to uphold the values he stood for,” he said.

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On his part, the ruling party’s Vice-Chairman (Mainland), Stephen Wasira, called on youth to emulate Lukuvi’s journey, saying his impeccable characters of hard work, cooperation and integrity propelled him through the ranks over the years.

“He did not start at the top, but earned trust over time. He served under four administrations from the late President Benjamin Mkapa to President Samia, demonstrating qualities that made him dependable across leadership,” he said.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda said he admired Lukuvi’s deep understanding of leadership responsibilities, describing him as humble and focused.

“He knew his role as a Member of Parliament and as a minister. He was never boastful,” he noted.

In the same vein, former Speaker Anne Makinda described the late Lukuvi as a results-oriented leader, who believed more in action than words, adding that his leadership translated into tangible development.

“He was not only a Member of Parliament for Isimani but also a leader who ensured development goals were achieved, even mobilising resources where challenges arose,” she said.

Equally important, Iringa Regional CCM Chairman Constantine Kiwele said Lukuvi’s integrity and firm principles enabled him to serve for over three decades, during which he spearheaded key projects, including water supply improvements, a 56bn/- irrigation scheme in Pawaga and ongoing road construction in Idodi.

Likewise, Iringa Regional Commissioner Kheri James said although Lukuvi has been laid to rest, his patriotism and hard work will continue to inspire generations.

“His actions continue to speak even in his absence,” he said.

According to family spokesperson Mosi Lukuvi, the deceased is survived by his widow-Germina and three children: Norbert, Brown and Anifisye Vanessa. He leaves behind a strong legacy of dedication to community development.