It was announced that the former President of Zambia, Rupiah Bwezani Banda, has died. As the African country’s fourth president, he was in power from 2008 to 2011.
Diagnosed with colon cancer two years ago, his death came a day after current President, Hakainde Hichilema paid him a courtesy call at his residence - where he found him in high spirits.
“It is with deep sadness that we learned of the demise of Zambia’s 4th Republican President, H.E Rupiah Bwezani Banda,” President Hichilema said. “As we prayed for the bereaved family, we know that the Lord will wrap them in His arms and comfort them.”
Zambia’s President recognized Banda’s long and illustrious career in public service and appreciated his service to the nation.
Leader of the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy, Banda was appointed by Zambia’s Vice President the late Levy Mwanawasa in 2006 after serving in serving in several diplomatic posts under the presidency of Kenneth Kaunda. Following Mwanawasa’s death in 2008 he ascended to acting President and narrowly won against opposition leader Michael Sata during the 2008 by-elections.
The father of seven children, he was 85.
