Samia, Mwinyi join nation in mourning passing of Charles Hillary

ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday joined Tanzanians in mourning the death of Director of Communications at Zanzibar’s State House and Chief Government Spokesperson for the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, Charles Hillary (66).

In a message posted on her official X (formerly Twitter) account, President Samia expressed deep sorrow at the loss of the veteran journalist and government official.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, His Excellency Dr Hussein Mwinyi, the family, friends and all media stakeholders in the country,” she wrote.

“May the Almighty grant his family strength and patience during this difficult time and may He rest our beloved’s soul in eternal peace. Indeed, we belong to God and to Him we shall return.”

President Samia noted that Mr Hillary would be remembered for his exceptional contribution to Tanzania’s media landscape spanning over four decades, from radio to television and for mentoring generations of young journalists.

Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi also conveyed his condolences following the loss of his close aide and communications chief.

Visiting the late Hillary’s residence in Kibamba CCM, Ubungo District, Dar es Salaam, President Mwinyi offered comfort to the widow, Sarah Mwakanjuki, along with family, relatives and friends.

Urging the bereaved to remain patient and resilient, President Mwinyi praised Hillary’s dedication, saying he had served the nation with integrity and professionalism.

Mr Hillary passed away in the early hours of yesterday at Mloganzila Hospital in Dar es Salaam, where he had been undergoing treatment.

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He was born on October 22, 1959. Zanzibar Chief Secretary Engineer Zena Ahmed confirmed the death yesterday and described Mr Hillary as a patriot and a committed public servant who had played a pivotal role in shaping government communications with efficiency and professionalism.

“The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar extends its deepest sympathies to the family, friends and all those affected by this great loss,” she said, urging everyone to remain strong in this period of mourning.

Mr Hillary had an extensive and distinguished media career. He began his journey in 1981 at Radio Tanzania (now TBC Radio), serving until 1994.

He later joined Radio One Stereo, followed by a stint at Deutsche Welle (DW) and subsequently the BBC Swahili Service in 2006.

He returned to Tanzania and worked with Azam Media as a producer, presenter and renowned football commentator. His voice became a fixture in Tanzanian sports journalism, particularly in football.

President Mwinyi appointed him as Director of Presidential Communications in December 2021 and later elevated him to the position of Chief Government Spokesperson in February 2023.

Mr Charles Hillary leaves behind a legacy of excellence in journalism and public service, remembered not only for his professionalism but also for his humility, mentorship and unwavering commitment to national service.