…Tulia hails Ndugai as champion of justice, unity

DODOMA: SPEAKER of the National Assembly, Dr Tulia Ackson has paid tribute to the late former Speaker Job Ndugai, describing him as a disciplinarian, unifier and staunch defender of justice.

Dr Tulia said Ndugai’s leadership left an indelible mark on the country’s parliamentary history and inspired both leaders and ordinary citizens.

The 62-year-old veteran politician passed away on Wednesday while receiving treatment at a hospital in Dodoma.

His passing has sparked an outpouring of emotion and reflection nationwide.

Delivering the eulogy, Clerk of the National Assembly Baraka Leonard said the former Speaker suffered from low blood pressure and respiratory infection (pneumonia).

Speaking during the state funeral held yesterday at the Bunge grounds in Dodoma, Dr Tulia said Ndugai viewed leadership not as a privilege of position but as a calling and duty to serve others wholeheartedly.

“He lived by the scriptures. He stood firm to ensure that every voice in the House was heard and valued, regardless of political affiliation or constituency,” she said

Dr Tulia recalled that those who worked closely with Ndugai, particularly the people of Kongwa, benefited greatly from his dedicated and tireless service.

“He was more than a political leader. Many of us witnessed his goodness, we were guided by him, listened to him and learned from him. Today, we mourn while honouring his immense contributions to Parliament, the people of Kongwa and the nation at large,” she added.

She noted that Ndugai’s passing had come as a shock, particularly during a period when the nation is engaged in several election processes in which he had played an active role.

Dr Tulia also expressed gratitude to God for Ndugai’s life and service, describing him as a visionary leader who initiated major reforms in Parliament.

“It was during his tenure that the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Amid lockdowns, he proposed that Parliament conduct its business online, an innovation that has transformed our House into a paperless, digital institution,” she said.

She also noted Ndugai’s role in initiating and overseeing the construction of the girls’ secondary school in Kikombo, Dodoma, named in honour of Parliament.

“That school continues to perform exceptionally well because of his vision. Now, we have begun constructing a boys’ school under my tenure, building on the foundation he laid,” she noted.

Dr Tulia further credited Ndugai with spearheading the passage of landmark legislation, including the 2018 law that officially declared Dodoma the capital city.

“Thanks to that law, all the development we see today in Dodoma is taking shape,” she said.

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She praised his commitment to upholding the dignity of Parliament, applying rules impartially and fostering political reconciliation to maintain unity within the House and beyond.

“He taught us that political differences are like the colours of our national flag, distinct but united in purpose. Above all, he was a nurturing leader. New MPs saw him as a teacher; others, as a wise and supportive brother. We remember him as a man of deep faith who reminded us that the authority we hold is not ours, but a trust from God,” she said.

Dr Tulia urged Tanzanians to emulate Ndugai’s legacy of unity, love and principled leadership.

“I can personally testify to his good deeds, having worked closely with him as Deputy Speaker. He was an excellent mentor who often reminded us that Parliament must advise and oversee the government with transparency and integrity, not with noise, but with reason and ethics,” she added.

In a symbolic gesture, Dr Tulia presented a speaker’s gown to Dr Fatma Mganga, the widow of the late Ndugai.

The tradition, introduced by Ndugai himself, involves presenting the ceremonial gown to outgoing Speakers at the end of their service, a practice previously observed with Pius Msekwa, the late Samuel Sitta (presented to his wife, Margareth Sitta) and Anne Makinda.

The late Job Ndugai will be laid to rest today at his home village of Msunjulile A, Sejeri Ward, Kongwa District, Dodoma.