Kenyan gospel singer Esther Wahome is mourning the death of her closest friend Burundi's President Pierre Nkurunzinza.

Nkurunzinza died on June 9 after suffering a cardiac arrest. His death was announced by Burundi government.

'The Government of the Republic of Burundi announces with great sadness the unexpected death of His Excellency Pierre Nkurunziza, President of the Republic of Burundi, at the Karusi Fiftieth Anniversary Hospital following a cardiac arrest on June 8, 2020,' read a statement by the government.

Esther Wahome in her tribute described Nkurunzinza as a great supporter of her music and giving her a chance to spread her wings in Burundi.

A VERY SAD DAY FOR ME. RIP my friend, President Pierre Nkurunziza, president of the Republic of Burundi. You loved my music so much, you welcomed me to Burundi,and even to visit and minister in your statehouse. I will forever be grateful to God, for the great favour he has given my music and I in Burundi, and for finding favour in your eyes as the president. It was amazing seeing you dance to my songs, as you sang word by word. My condolences to your lovely family, friends and the beautiful people of Burundi.

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Nkurunzinza, who was loved and feared in equal measure died aged 55 and was in power for 15 years.

He was known for his love for football and has left behind a widow Denise and six children.

Denise Nkurunzinza is currently hospitalized at a high-end hospital in Nairobi and is rumoured to have tested positive for coronavirus.

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