President Ruto mourns Tanzania's former Prime Minister Edward Lowassa

Lowassa, 70, died on Saturday at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) in Dar es Salaam where he was being treated for a myriad of conditions including lung issues, stomach ulcers, and hypertension.

Ruto took to X on Sunday celebrating the late leader for the achievements he made during his time in office.

"We honour the distinguished life that he led, his work and the rich legacy that he leaves behind," wrote Ruto.

He condoled with Tanzanians and the deceased's family as they grieve Lowassa's death.

Lowassa had served as Prime Minister from 2005 to 2008 under President Jakaya Kikwete.

He stepped down following scandals at the time, after which President Kikwete dissolved his Cabinet, replacing him with a new Prime Minister, Mizengo Pinda.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan mourned Lowassa and declared five days of national mourning as she condoled with the family, friends and the general public on Saturday. 

Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango consequently directed that the Tanzanian national flag would fly at half-mast for the five-day mourning period.