By Our Reporter
Dar Es Salaam: The Peoples Republic of Tanzania is mourning former President H.E Benjamin Mkapa, who died in the early hours of Friday morning, President John Magufuli said in a statement.
Mkapa, the East African nation’s third president who served from 1995 to 2005, led several regional peace mediation efforts in office.
He died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Dar es Salaam, Magufuli said, without giving more details.
He declared a seven day mourning period, during which all flags will be flown at half-mast.
“Magufuli asks all Tanzanians to remain calm, patient and united during this difficult time,” a statement from his office said.
Mkapa, 81, also served as an ambassador, minister and key official of the ruling Chama Chamapenduzi (CCM) party, Magufuli said.