Tanzania’s First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, died on Monday while receiving treatment for a heart condition, the vice president said.
Hassan died at about 8 a.m. at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi said in a statement.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Honourable Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania,” Ndejembi said.
He said funeral arrangements were underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, and offered condolences to President Samia, the family and Tanzanians.
Hassan and Samia married in 1978 and had four children, including Wanu Hafidh Ameir, a member of parliament.
An agriculture scholar, Hassan largely kept away from public life during his wife’s presidency and rarely appeared at public events.
Kenyan President William Ruto was among the regional leaders who sent condolences, saying Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning.
“May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest,” Ruto said.
