Bongo singer Lady Jaydee’s ex-husband passed away at the age of 50 over the weekend at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) where he was receiving treatment.
Gardner Habash had been admitted to the hospital for a few days due to heart and blood pressure complications.
Habash was a former presenter at Clouds FM and at one point was Lady Jaydee’s manager.
Lady Jaydee and Habash tied the knot in 2005 but later parted ways in 2016. Despite their separation, rumours of their reconciliation sparked after the emergence of a photo of the two hanging out late last year.
The singer had previously accused her late ex-husband of infidelity and struggles with alcoholism. This was rumoured to be the cause of their split.
Habash had one child from another relationship with singer and entrepreneur Malkia Karen.
Following his passing, family and friends convened at Leaders Club, Dar Es Salaam on Monday, April 22, to pay their respects.
Addressing mourners, Lady Jaydee said, “Kwanza sijui hata kitu cha kuzungumza nianzie wapi kwa sababu sikuwa nimejipanga, wala sikuwa nimetegemea siku ya leo itafikia hapa tulipo kwa ajili ya kuaga mpenzi wetu lakini nishukuru tu kwa kila mmoja aliye fika kushiriki hapa na tuendelee kumwombea aweze kupumzika kwa amani.”
President Samia Suluhu led Tanzanians in the tributes, describing Gardner as a sociable person.
Tanzanian stars Diamond Platnumz and Harmonize also led other musical stars in paying tribute to Habash.