Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced Monday that Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, had died while receiving hospital care in Zanzibar.
Hassan, who became the nation’s first gentleman in 2021, had been undergoing treatment for a heart condition. He was 73, according to regional reports, though some outlets listed his age as 59. The discrepancy was not immediately clarified by officials.
Ndejembi conveyed the news directly and shared that burial arrangements were being prepared in the family’s native Zanzibar, the semiautonomous archipelago that forms part of Tanzania. The vice president also extended his condolences to the grieving family.
President Hassan, 65, assumed office in March 2021 following the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli. Her elevation made history as she became Tanzania’s first female president. She recently secured a second term after winning a disputed election held last year with more than 97 percent of the vote. Candidates from the two main opposition parties were barred from participating in that contest.
The couple built a family of four children together: three sons and one daughter, who currently serves as a lawmaker.
Regional leaders quickly moved to express their sympathies. Kenyan President William Ruto offered condolences on behalf of his government and people, writing: “President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.”
Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye also sent his condolences directly to President Hassan and to the people of Tanzania.
Hafidh Ameir Hassan largely maintained a private profile during his wife’s presidency, in keeping with the traditional role of presidential spouses in Tanzanian politics. His death marks a significant personal loss for a leader who has navigated both historic achievement and considerable political controversy during her time in office.
The burial proceedings in Zanzibar are expected to draw attendance from government officials and regional dignitaries, reflecting the cross-border relationships that Tanzania maintains within East Africa.
President Hassan is scheduled to continue her official duties as the nation observes a period of mourning for its former first gentleman.