Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Acting President Guy Scott has announced the commencement of the period of mourning for President Michael Sata who died in London last evening.
Addressing the nation on national television this afternoon, Dr Scott said the period of mourning for the late president starts today, and that lengthy of that period will be determined in due course.
Dr Scott has also stated that he will lead the country during the transition period leading to the holding of elections to elect the new President within the stipulated 90 days.
Earlier in the day Justice Minister Edgar Lungu who has been acting as President since President Michael Sata left the country for London for medical treatment has told a media briefing that Dr Scott will act as president.
Mr Lungu explained that the constitution allows the vice president to act as President in case of a vacancy in the presidency.
Article 38 of the republican constitution states that if the office of the President becomes vacant,the Vice President or, in the absence of the Vice President of if the Vice President is unable, by reason of physical or mental infirmity, to discharge the functions of his office, a member of the Cabinet elected by the Cabinet shall perform the functions of the office of President until a person elected as President in accordance with Article 34 assumes office.
Meanwhile Secretary to the Cabinet Rowland Msiska has advised members of the general public outside Lusaka not to travel to Lusaka for funeral of President Michael Sata.
Dr Msiska in a statement issued this afternoon and obtained by QFM News says government will give guidance on the funeral and burial arrangements for the late President.
President Michael Sata passed on yesterday at London’s King Edward VII Hospital in the United Kingdom where he had been receiving medical attention.