John Magufuli

Magufuli initiated a high-profile anti-corruption drive, dismissing officials for graft and cutting government spending. He canceled Independence Day celebrations and redirected funds to health and education, earning the nickname 'The Bulldozer'.

Magufuli won the Tanzanian presidential election as the candidate of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi party. He succeeded Jakaya Kikwete and began his first term with a reputation for anti-corruption and infrastructure development.

Magufuli won a second term with 84% of the vote in an election criticized by opposition and international observers for irregularities. The opposition disputed results, and the period saw crackdowns on media and political dissent.

Magufuli downplayed the COVID-19 pandemic, rejecting lockdowns and masks, and claiming prayers and steam inhalation could cure the virus. He refused to release case data, leading to international criticism and domestic health concerns.

Magufuli died at age 61 in a Dar es Salaam hospital, officially from heart disease. Opposition figures and many observers believed he died from COVID-19, which his government had downplayed. His death ended his presidency abruptly.