Nation mourns Samuel John Sitta

WIDELY referred to as the man of ‘Speed and Standard,’ 74-year old Samuel Sitta is dead.

Former Speaker of the Ninth Parliament and Chairman of the Constituent Assembly died yesterday at the Technical University Hospital in Munich, German, where he was receiving medical treatment.

The parliamentary session in Dodoma was postponed yesterday morning to allow Members of Parliament to mourn the death of their colleague and friend, who retired from the house last year as Urambo legislator.

In his condolence message to the Speaker, Mr Job Ndugai, President John Magufuli said the nation has lost an important person who contributed immensely to the country’s leadership and development.

“It’s with profound sorrow and deep shock that I have learnt of the death of Mr Sitta...I will miss him for his hardworking, patriotism and attitude to stick to truth during his leadership at different levels in the government and political arena,” said Dr Magufuli.

He added: “I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Ms Magreth Sitta, who is also the MP for Urambo constituency, Urambo constituents, all MPs and all people whom this death has touched.” Dr Magufuli said he was with the bereaved family during this sad and trying moment, “And, I pray for you to be patient.”

According to the House Chairperson, Mussa Hassan Zungu, postponement of the parliamentary session was also in recognition of the former Speaker’s contribution and commitment to the welfare of the Parliament of Tanzania.

The National Assembly resumes its activities this morning. “The Steering committee met and, taking into account the contributions of former Speaker Sitta, decided that we postpone today’s sessions,” Mr Zungu told the legislators who had sought his guidance, proposing the session postponement in tribute to the former Speaker. Some dignitaries showed up at his residence at Masaki area yesterday to console the bereaved family.

They included Chama Cha Mapinduzi Dar es Salaam Regional Chairman Ramadhan Madabida, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda and former Tabora Urban legislator Ismail Aden Rage.

Speaking at the deceased’s home, Mr Madabida said the demise of the former speaker and minister has left a gap in the country, stressing however that his legacy will live on.

Sitta’s son, Benjamin who is also Kinondoni Mayor said a committee that has been formed together with the national assembly Clerk, Dr Thomas Kashililah was tasked with informing the public about all arrangements, including the date for the burial that will take place in Urambo.

“We are also waiting for the burial timetable to know when we will receive our father and all burial arrangements, including paying of last respects and burial in Urambo,” Sitta explained.

The late Sitta held several ministerial positions before retiring from active politics.