The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, led an assembly of leaders and hundreds of citizens in paying their final respects to the late Charles Martin Hilary, the former Chief Government Spokesperson and Director of Communications at the State House of Zanzibar.
The service began with President Dr. Mwinyi guiding the mourners in a somber farewell to the late Hilary at the Mapinduzi Square grounds in Michenzani, Mjini District.
Speaking at the event, President Mwinyi fondly remembered the late Charles Hilary, stating, “He was a dedicated and hardworking individual, a true patriot who gave his all to this nation. His passion for his work and love for Zanzibar were evident in everything he did.” He added, “Charles was not only a servant of the government but also a servant of the people, always striving to make a positive difference in their lives.”
The President emphasized the importance of recognizing and appreciating exceptional public servants while they are still alive.
He urged government officials, saying, “We must build a culture of honoring and praising those who serve our nation with excellence while they are here with us, not waiting until they have passed on. We must not wait for death to acknowledge their contributions.”he added
In his remarks, Dr. Mwinyi reiterated that the nation has a duty to continue celebrating Charles Hilary’s legacy.
“The work Charles did, the integrity he exhibited, and the service he gave to this nation will never be forgotten. We owe it to him, and to our country, to carry forward his commitment to excellence in public service.”he added
President Mwinyi also extended his deepest condolences to the family of the late Charles Hilary, including his widow, Mrs. Sarah Mwakanjuki.
“In this time of sorrow, my heart goes out to you. May you find strength and solace in the memories of his great contributions and in the knowledge that his work will continue to inspire us all,” he said, urging them to remain patient and strong during this period of mourning.
A memorial mass for the deceased was held at the Anglican Cathedral Church in Mkunazini, where friends and family gathered to remember his life and legacy.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the late Charles Hilary’s daughter, Faith Charles Hilary, expressed her heartfelt gratitude.
“We are deeply grateful to the Government of Zanzibar for the tremendous respect shown to my father throughout his life,” she said.
“He was entrusted with significant responsibilities, and we will always remember the dignity with which he was honored both in life and after his passing.”he added
The late Charles Hilary passed away on May 11, 2025, while being transported to Mlonganzila Hospital in Dar es Salaam for medical treatment. He leaves behind his widow and two children, whose loss is felt deeply by the nation as a whole.
As President Mwinyi concluded, “Charles Hilary’s legacy is one of dedication, service, and love for this country. We will continue to honor him for the outstanding work he did for Zanzibar and for the people he served so faithfully.”