CHATO: TANZANIANS have been urged to honour the legacy of the late President Dr John Magufuli by strengthening accountability and cultivating a Godfearing spirit.
Bishop Severine Niwemugizi of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rulenge Ngara made the remark yesterday during a special church service in Chato, Geita Region, to commemorate the late Dr Magufuli, who passed away on March 17, 2021.
He reminded the congregation that Dr Magufuli had a deep love for his country, protecting its resources and maintaining an unwavering commitment to serving all Tanzanians without discrimination.
Bishop Niwemugizi said that every public and private servant, in their respective positions, should be responsible, avoid wrongdoing-including mistreating others and instead demonstrate love and compassion.
“Magufuli used to say that there are needy people who deserve help. He emphasised the importance of serving the poor,” he said, adding, “This is a great reason to pray for him and remember his legacy.”
He also noted that praying for the deceased is a spiritual necessity, reminding believers of the reality of death.
Bishop Niwemugizi further said that Dr Magufuli had urged other leaders to understand the existence of both God and death, in an effort to ensure that their leadership was aligned with divine teachings.
“As we saw during his funeral, people were overwhelmed with sorrow; some even fainted in honour of a leader who had touched their lives in many ways,” he said.
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He praised Dr Magufuli as a hardworking leader who, in every government position—including as Member of Parliament (MP) and minister—earned accolades from his colleagues. “For those with eyes to see, we can witness the remarkable achievements he made during his six years as president.
Our country witnessed significant progress and therefore, we must respect his contributions,” he said.
On behalf of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Policy, Parliamentary Affairs, and Coordination, Mr William Lukuvi stated that the government will continue to honour the late Dr Magufuli’s legacy, following the country’s tradition of remembering national leaders.
He acknowledged Dr Magufuli’s contributions to the country since 1995, when he served in various roles, including as MP, deputy minister, minister and president, making profound impacts on the nation’s prosperity.
“The late Dr Magufuli was a patriotic leader, one who cared deeply for the people and resources of his country. He was a God-fearing man,” he said.
Geita Regional Chairperson of the Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Mr Nicolous Kasendamila, urged the citizens to uphold Magufuli’s legacy by protecting unity and peace, especially as the 2025 General Election approaches.
On his part, Geita Regional Commissioner, Mr Martine Shigella, encouraged the residents of Chato and Geita at large to emulate Dr Magufuli’s legacy of hard work and continue supporting development projects initiated by his successor, President Dr Samia.
Magufuli’s daughter, Ms Jesca Magufuli, expressed gratitude to the sixth-phase government for continuing to honour her father’s good deeds and for staying close to their family.
