Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the death of the former President of Tanzania Benjamin William Mkapa

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened to learn of the death of former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Benjamin William Mkapa. At this time of loss, the Secretary-General conveys his deepest condolences to the family of the former President as well as to the Government and people of the United Republic of Tanzania. Former President Mkapa was a statesman, an experienced diplomat and a respected regional peacemaker and advocate of reconciliation. He was instrumental in facilitating the mediation for the East African Community-led inter-Burundian Dialogue, under the leadership of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, and was part of the African Union’s Panel of Eminent African Personalities that brokered an agreement following the disputed 2007-2008 general elections in Kenya. He was also a member of the Panel of Eminent Persons appointed by the Secretary-General to review and enhance the role of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).