Hundreds of Dar es Salaam residents led by President Jakaya Kikwete have paid their last respects to the country’s popular opposition politician icon, Reverend Christopher Mtikila, as he was described as a human rights and political activist.
The late Mtikila, prior to his death, was founder and national chairperson of the Democratic Party (DP) who had on several occasions vied for the Union presidency through his party.
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice-President, Dr Mohamed Gharib Bilal, described him as firm person who stood for issues of national interest without fear.
“Every one of us knew Mtikila and we will remember him for his contribution in our country as he fought for many people and made sure no rights were violated,” he said. VP stressed that community members should learn from him that if you believe in something, never give up until it becomes a reality.
Political Parties Register, Justice Francis Mutungi said Mtikila has greater contribution especially in the political arena as he fought for what he believed was right.
“Once he believed in something, he was ready to prove that it was the right thing for others to go after, he also initiated amendments of various laws including that of political parties Section 21 concerning demonstrations,” he elaborated.
Justice Mutungi further said though some people perceived him as a trouble maker, he described him as a person who followed procedures on every issue. Expounding further he said youth have a lot to learn from Mtikila as he never believed in demonstrations rather, he was following procedures and used courts of law to fight for his rights on any matter. Adding, demonstrating was never a solution to any problem.
Full Salvation Church leader, Bishop Daudi Mwaijojele, said the life of human beings goes through three stages which were birth, marriage and death. “As Christians, we believe there is life after death thus it is crucial for people to learn to live righteous life.
People should stop doing evil things and get prepared every time,” said Bishop Mwaijojele. He stressed that there was no life in milk and bread but in the Word of God, adding people should turn to Christ for peace of mind.
Political Parties Council Representative, Mr Peter Mziray, said they appreciate his efforts as through him the issue of independent candidate was included in the proposed constitution.
“We will keep on fighting for what he believed as it was for the benefit of all people in the country, he was not selfish,” he said. Mtikila died last Sunday morning in a dawn car accident at Msolwa in Bagamoyo District, Coast Region, he was born in Milo Village in Ludewa District in Njombe Region in 1950.
Despite political activities, Reverend Mtikila is the founder and head of the Pentecostal Church Full Salvation Church. Politicians, religious leaders, activists and the general public gathered at Karimjee grounds to pay their last respects to Reverend Mtikila, who will be laid to rest in his village.
Daily News.
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