Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi has called on current and future leaders to uphold the legacy of the late former National Assembly Speaker Samuel Sitta. He made the remarks during an event marking 10 years since Sitta's death and the launch of a book documenting his life and leadership journey in Dodoma. Ndejembi, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasised the importance of strengthening public institutions, promoting accountability, and prioritising national interests over personal ambitions.
Ndejembi highlighted Sitta's significant contributions to Tanzania, which went beyond his senior positions. He noted that Sitta's greatest legacy lay in his efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, improve parliamentary performance, and promote responsible leadership. The Vice-President recalled Sitta's introduction of the 'Speed and Standards' slogan as Speaker in 2005, which helped reshape parliamentary operations and improve the institution's performance.
The Vice-President said Sitta believed national development depended on strong institutions guided by established procedures, integrity, and good governance principles. He noted that Sitta considered procedures not merely as a collection of papers but as a guarantee of justice, protection of democratic legitimacy, and a pillar of institutional continuity. Ndejembi also recalled Sitta's patriotism, courage, and commitment to accountability, qualities that should guide those entrusted with public responsibilities.
Ndejembi drew on the teachings of the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, stating that leadership was fundamentally about service, while public office was a responsibility entrusted to individuals for the benefit of citizens. He emphasised that true leadership was not a path to seeking prestige or personal benefits but a responsibility, service, and commitment to others. The Vice-President said Sitta's leadership offered lessons on the proper exercise of public authority, particularly in a time when public institutions' effectiveness depended on leaders' integrity and commitment.
Sitta served Tanzania for over four decades in various capacities, including Executive Secretary of the National Development Corporation, Urambo Member of Parliament, Regional Commissioner for Iringa and Kilimanjaro, National Assembly Speaker, and Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs. He also served as Minister responsible for the Capital Development Authority, East African Cooperation and Transport, and chairman of the Constitutional Assembly.
The book launched at the event was described by Ndejembi as more than a biography, as it documents an important chapter in Tanzania's democratic development. He urged young leaders, students, and members of the public to read it, saying past leaders' experiences could offer lessons in public service, institutional development, and national responsibility. Ndejembi also acknowledged Sitta's family's contribution to his public service career, noting that national leadership often required sacrifices and patience from family members.
Speaker of Parliament Mussa Azzan Zungu recalled Sitta's passion for sports, particularly football, and his influence in supporting Simba and Yanga. Zungu described Sitta as a leader who recognised others' abilities and assigned responsibilities according to their talents, citing his experience in parliamentary committees and contribution to improving Parliament's performance. The event was attended by various dignitaries, who paid tribute to Sitta's legacy and contributions to Tanzania's development.
Key points
- Ndejembi urges leaders to uphold Sitta's legacy of accountability and strengthen public institutions.
- Sitta's leadership emphasised the importance of integrity, good governance, and responsible leadership.
- A book documenting Sitta's life and leadership journey has been launched to share his experiences and lessons with future leaders.
