Dar es Salaam—President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Charles Hillary, the Chief Government Spokesperson of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and Director of Presidential Communications. Hillary passed away in the early hours of Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Dar es Salaam at the age of 66.
Dr. Mwinyi visited the family home of the deceased in the Kibamba CCM area of Ubungo District to personally offer his condolences to the widow, Ms. Sarah Mwakanjuki, along with family members, friends, and colleagues.
“This is a profound loss not only to the family, but to the entire nation,” said President Mwinyi. “Charles Hillary served with great dedication, professionalism, and loyalty.
His contributions to public communication and government transparency will be remembered for years to come.”
The late Hillary was first appointed by President Mwinyi as Director of the Presidential Communications Office on December 30, 2021. He was later reappointed as Chief Government Spokesperson on February 6, 2023.
“He was a pillar of government communication,” the President added. “In every role he took, he upheld the values of integrity and public service.”
Mourners gathered at the family residence to pay their respects, including senior government officials and members of the press. Many recalled Hillary as a mentor and a dedicated public servant.
“He was not just a boss, but a guide and friend,” said one colleague from the communications office. “He inspired many of us with his clarity, composure, and commitment to the truth.”
President Mwinyi urged the family and all those affected to remain patient and strong during this time of grief.
“We must remember his life with gratitude and honor his legacy by continuing the work he cared so deeply about,” he said.Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
