Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has said the late William Lukuvi, former Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities and Member of Parliament for Isimani, will be remembered by Tanzanians for his distinguished public service and lasting contribution to national development.
Dr Nchemba made the remarks on Tuesday during the funeral service of the veteran politician held at his home in Idodi Village, Iringa District. The Prime Minister led the burial ceremony on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He said Lukuvi’s leadership in the ruling party, Parliament, government and his constituency played an important role in advancing development and improving the lives of citizens.
“Lukuvi will be remembered for many things by Tanzanians due to his exemplary service in various positions. His contribution to society and to the nation through the roles he held in the party, in the constituency and in government has been a catalyst for development among citizens,” said Dr Nchemba.
The Prime Minister assured residents of Isimani that the government would continue implementing the development plans that the late leader had championed.
“On behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, I would like to assure you that just as he stood with you during his lifetime, the dreams he had for this community will continue to be implemented,” he said.
Dr Nchemba urged residents of Isimani to preserve unity and respect as they honour the legacy of their long-serving leader.
“I urge the people of Isimani to continue honouring him. Let us not begin unnecessary competition, but instead protect the dignity of our elder by maintaining respect and harmony,” he said.
He also highlighted Lukuvi’s deep commitment to the welfare of the people he represented, noting that his close relationship with constituents enabled him to serve the constituency for more than three decades.
“He cared deeply about the lives of the people he led. That is why he managed to serve the constituency for 31 years. As politicians we know it is not easy to lead for such a long time, but he managed because he placed the welfare of his people first,” he said.
Dr Nchemba further said the government would honour Lukuvi’s legacy by continuing to implement key development projects he strongly supported, particularly road infrastructure in the area.
“The Pawaga and Isimani road projects will all be completed. I assure you that the government will continue implementing them as part of the CCM manifesto and also as a way of honouring the late William Lukuvi,” he said.
Speaker of the National Assembly Mussa Azzan Zungu said the death of Lukuvi had brought deep sorrow to the country and described the loss as a major blow to Parliament.
He noted that the magnitude of the loss was reflected in the presence of about 160 Members of Parliament who attended the funeral.
“Lukuvi understood his responsibilities and served Parliament with dedication. His passing is a great loss because we have lost his experience and leadership,” said Mr Zungu.
Earlier, CCM Vice-Chairman for Mainland Tanzania Stephen Wasira urged young members of the ruling party to learn from Lukuvi’s political journey, which began at grassroots level before rising to national leadership.
He noted that one of the key lessons from Lukuvi’s leadership was his ability to balance national responsibilities with commitment to his constituency.
“Not many leaders manage to serve as Members of Parliament or ministers and still remain close to their constituencies. Many forget their voters after getting positions and only return during elections,” said Mr Wasira.
He added that Lukuvi’s service under four presidents from the administration of Benjamin Mkapa to the current government demonstrated the trust and confidence he earned from national leadership.
The funeral mass was led by Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Iringa, Father Paul Msombe, who called on believers to live righteous lives and remain spiritually prepared.
He described the late Lukuvi as a humble leader despite the high offices he held and a person who maintained strong relationships with fellow believers.
“Despite his high positions, he remained humble and cooperative with fellow worshippers. We must remember that one day we will all rest as our brother William has rested in peace,” he said.
Lukuvi passed away on March 25 while receiving treatment at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma, bringing to an end a long political career that spanned decades of service in party structures, government and Parliament.
