ZANCANA

Death of a colossus: Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad — giant who taught Zanzibar, Tanzania and the region the meaning of forgiveness and national cohesion.

 This is part of document written by Khaleed Said Suleiman. Tel: +1 416 700 1332 Email: Khaleed_ihaab@yahoo.com Thursday, February 18th, 2021.

I was deeply saddened to hear the death of Maalim Seif Shariff Hamad who was a stable force and a towering figure in our time; a legend in life and now in death – a true Zanzibar hero. I offer deepest condolences and sympathy to Maalim Seif’s family and to my fellow Zanzibaris. His steadfast leadership embodied his sincerity, generosity, grace, tolerance, and deep love for Zanzibar.

 Words fall short of articulating a eulogy for Maalim Seif Shariff Hamad as great as him or describe his good deeds and accomplishments.  Maalim Seif will be missed not only by the people of Zanzibar but also by his friends and admirers the world over. He was a true friend of everyone, renowned for his wisdom, compassion, and vision. He worked selflessly to fight and develop Zanzibar and promote peace in the isles.

Maalim Seif was a charismatic leader who promised his people and country to break Zanzibar’s long political impasse, and usher in a new era of stability and prosperity for all. He is one of those rare leaders who unselfishly dedicated his life for his people.

What is important now is the stability of the country and for the politics of compromise to continue with the vision Maalim Seif aspired to achieve throughout his life and left Zanzibar in a good place before he was called by his Maker.

Maalim Seif occupied that office from 2010 to 2015 and again following the 2020 elections until his death. Pursuant to the Constitution of Zanzibar, upon the death of the First Vice President, his political party would put forward name(s) for the President to be picked as the new First Vice President. Both his party ACT Wazalendo as well as President Mwinyi will have to be careful in determining the most suitable replacement for Maalim Seif. This is not the time for political expediency or political opportunism; it is the time to pick the most qualified person to step into Maalim’s big shoes and to lead Zanzibar into prosperity after 57 years of stagnation.

Maalim Seif Shariff Hamad will truly be missed. We had a lot of respect for him. Let us take comfort in knowing that his powerful legacy will live on and excel in the position of the next First Vice President .

May Allah for give him and grant him Jannat firdous— Aamiin.

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