Mr. Speaker, yesterday one of the most visionary and illustrious sons of Africa passed away. Julius Nyerere, the former president of Tanzania, who was one of the leading figures in Africa's struggle for independence in its post-colonial era, lost his battle with leukemia.
As a former citizen of Tanzania I can attest to his greatness. While I disagreed with his economic and political philosophy, he commanded a high degree of respect from all Tanzanians, Africans and other citizens of the world. He was respected because his citizens came first.
Throughout Tanzania and Africa he was best known as Mwalimu , which means a teacher in Kiswahili. After his retirement he continued to play an advisory role in Tanzanian and regional politics. The world looked upon him to play a role in carving a bright future for Africa.
To Mwalimu 's family, the government and people of Tanzania we would like to express our profound sympathy. I end by saying:
Kwahir Mwalimu.