Mwai Kibaki, Kenya’s third president and one of the country’s most well-known politicians, has died, according to Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. He was 90 years old.

His political career spanned decades, and he served as vice president to Daniel arap Moi, whom he succeeded as president of the East African country in 2002.

When Kibaki stepped down after his second presidential term concluded in 2013, he left behind a complex legacy as an economist and avid golfer. He not only presided over a new constitution that offered promise for the future, but he also led Kenya through a time of strong economic growth and significant infrastructure development.

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He was also in charge during the country’s most violent election, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people.

Kenyatta acknowledged Kibaki’s death in a statement, saying the country would observe a time of national mourning from Friday through his funeral.

Kenyatta praised Kibaki as “the gentleman of Kenyan politics,” praising his “dignity, dedication, candour, and care for the well-being of all Kenyans.”

“Kibaki was a true patriot whose legacy of civic responsibility will live on in the hearts of Kenyans for decades to come,” Kenyatta added.