SHEIKH SIMBA TO BE BURRIED TO DAY.
THE Chief Sheikh, Mufti Issa bin Shaaban bin Simba, is dead. Alhaj Simba died on Monday morning at the TMJ Hospital in Dar es Salaam where he was undergoing treatment for kidney and bronchial complications.
Dar es Salaam Chief Sheikh, Alhadi Mussa Salim, told reporters in Dar es Salaam that the Mufti had undergone surgery the previous day but did not recover.
He said complications started right after Alhaj Simba had returned from an official tour of the regions and was rushed to TMJ Hospital in the city for emergency treatment, adding that the Mufti had a history of diabetes and heart problems.
“The Mufti had been admitted to TMJ where he underwent tests and diagnosed for kidney and lung problems. He underwent surgery and we had expected him to recover but unfortunately he died,” he explained.
The chief regional sheikh said special prayers for the soul of Sheikh Simba will be conducted on Tuesday at the National Muslim Council, Bakwata, headquarters in Dar es Salaam between 10 am and 11 am, before transporting the body of the late Islamic leader to Shinyanga for burial.
He said an arrangement has been made to ensure that all those wishing to participate in the burial prayers in Dar es Salaam or burial in Shinyanga are able to attend. He called on the faithful to be patient during this difficult period in the countdown to the Mufti’s burial.
Sheikh Salim added that President Jakaya Kikwete will lead other government leaders and senior officials in the burial of Sheikh Simba. However, as we went to press last night, there were reports that the Mufti’s family members were pressing for the burial to be held on Tuesday at 4pm in Shinyanga.
According to Kigoma Regional Sheikh, Alhaj Hassan Iddi, family members and friends are gathered at the deceased’s home in Mikocheni, Dar es Salaam.
Following the chief sheikh’s passing away, President Kikwete, has sent a condolence message to BAKWATA and Muslims in the country.
The president said in a press statement released by the Directorate of Presidential Communications in Dar es Salaam that the contribution by the late Sheikh Simba to the Tanzanian society will never be forgotten.
“As death is inevitable for every human being, we have to accept it. It’s our responsibility to pray for Sheikh Simba so that he rests in peace,” said the head of state in the condolence message sent to Dar es Salaam Regional Sheikh, Alhadi Mussa Salum.
He called on the bereaved family, Muslims and members of the public to be patient during this ‘’moment of deep sorrow.’’ The late Sheikh Simba became Shinyanga Regional Sheikh in 1970 after teaching in Islamic schools, madrassa, in Mwanza and Kagera regions for years.
He joined BAKWATA in 1968. Mr Kikwete described the late Sheikh Simba as a much-experienced religious teacher who used his knowledge to benefit members of the public, noting that he loved his religion.
The late Sheikh Simba became the Mufti of Tanzania in 2003 after acting in the post for 90 days following the death of the then Mufti of Tanzania, Sheikh Hemed Bin Jumaa in 2002.
Kagera Regional Sheikh Haruna Kichwabuta said the death of Mufti Alhaji Shaaban Issa Simba has robbed the nation of a dedicated leader.
Bukoba Urban MP Ambassador Khamis Kagasheki described the late Mufti Simba as among a few dedicated religious leaders who worked tirelessly to ensure peace among people from all religions, adding that he will be missed by many.
Ambassador Kagasheki sent his condolences to all Muslims in the country and residents in Bukoba Municipality for the loss of the religious leader.
On Monday, the Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Dr Fenella Mukangara, sent a message of condolence to the National Muslim Council of Tanzania over the death of the Sheikh Simba.
Dr Mukangara said the nation has lost a ‘’bold and hardworking religious leader,’’ who was especially needed during this period when the country is heading towards the general elections in October.
“He was always ready to listen and provide assistance to any one regardless of their religious denomination. I have received the news of his death with great sadness,” she added.
