US Statement On the Passing of John Pombe Magufuli

Press Statement
Ned Price, Department Spokesperson
March 17, 2021

We extend our condolences to Tanzanians mourning the passing of President John Pombe Magufuli. We will continue to work with the Government of Tanzania to improve ties between the American and Tanzanian people. The United States remains committed to continuing to support Tanzanians as they advocate for respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that Tanzania can move forward on a democratic and prosperous path

John pombe

Meanwhile, the Vice President announced that the nation will observe 14 days of mourning.

President Magufuli's death comes months after he was sworn-in for a second five-year term.

According to news reports, Magufuli was last seen in public at an event in Dar es Salaam on February 27.

First elected as a Member of Parliament in 1995, Magufuli served in the Cabinet of Tanzania as Deputy Minister of Works from 1995 to 2000 to 2006, Minister of Lands and Human Settlement from 2006 to 2008, Minister of Livestock and Fisheries from 2008 to 2010.

He also served as Minister of Works for a second time from 2010 to 2015, before being elected as the fifth President of Tanzania.

Magufuli has survived by a wife and two children