Oburu Oginga Mourns Death of Tanzania President Samia’s Husband
ODM leader Oburu Oginga jets back, views sister’s body at mortuary after hiatus in Dubai
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party leader Dr Oburu Oginga has condoled with Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.
Hafidh died on September 7, 2026, at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had been receiving treatment for a heart condition. He died at about 8am.
In his condolence message to President Samia, Oburu conveyed sympathy on behalf of the ODM leadership and membership, the Odinga family and himself.
“On behalf of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party, its leadership and membership, the Odinga family and on my own behalf, I convey our deepest condolences to you, your family and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania following the passing of your beloved husband, Mzee Hafidh Ameir Hassan,” Oburu said.
The Siaya Senator described Hafidh as a respected Tanzanian whose quiet dignity, wisdom and service earned him respect beyond the country’s borders.
Oburu said his death was a loss not only to Tanzania but also to the wider East African community.
“Mzee Hassan was a respected son of Tanzania whose quiet dignity, wisdom and service earned him esteem far beyond the borders of his country. His passing is therefore a loss not only to Tanzania, but to the wider East African family,” he said.
The ODM leader also reflected on the long-standing friendship between the Odinga and Suluhu families.
He noted President Samia’s friendship with and respect for the late former ODM leader Raila Odinga, saying the relationship reflected the historical ties between Kenya and Tanzania.
“Our thoughts at this time are also informed by the warm friendship that has long existed between our families. We shall always treasure, in particular, Your Excellency’s friendship with and high regard for our departed Party Leader, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” Oburu said.
He added that the friendship demonstrated the close ties between the two countries and their shared commitment to East African unity and development.
Oburu further highlighted the relationship between ODM and Tanzania’s ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
He said the bond between the two political parties had remained strong and continued to grow, alongside the longstanding relationship between Kenya and Tanzania.
“The bond between ODM and Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has similarly remained strong and continues to grow, just as the brotherly relations between Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania have endured through generations,” he said.
Oburu said President Samia could draw strength from the life she shared with her husband and the family they built together.
He also expressed confidence that the respect held for Hafidh would endure following his death.
“As you mourn your husband and companion, may you draw strength from the life you shared, the family you built together, and the enduring respect in which Mzee Hassan was held,” Oburu said.
He concluded the message by extending his sympathies to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.
“Please accept, Your Excellency, our heartfelt sympathies. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Oburu said.
