Scott is acting President

Vice President Guy Scott will act as President during the transition period leading to elections to be held in 90 days.

This follows the death of President Michael Sata who died in London last evening.

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.

Mr Lungu has since appealed for calm as the nation mourns the Head of State.

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.