Chiefs mourn RB

Traditional leaders across the country have joined in paying their last respects to fourth republican president Rupiah Banda who succumbed to colon cancer last Friday.

Speaking on behalf of fellow tradition al leaders, House of Chiefs Chairperson Senior Chief Luembe says the traditional leadership is saddened by the untimely demise of the former president.

Chief Luembe, who consoled the late president’s widow Thandiwe, encouraged her and the family to be strong.

He says traditional leaders across the country will continue to cherish Mr Banda’s contribution to the nation.

And Family spokesperson Fisho Mwale thanked the traditional leaders for joining the nation in mourning President Banda.

And Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president Chishimba Nkole says Mr Banda will be remembered for his immense contribution to the country.

Meanwhile Movement for Democratic Change (mdc) vice president for politics Leonard Hikaumba says Mr Banda deepened Zambia’s democratic space during his reign as president by allowing free participation of opposition parties.

He adds that the former president valued stakeholders’ contribution to governance.