WINDHOEK – Namibians, Zambians and the diplomatic fraternity in Windhoek joined in mourning the death of the late Zambian President Michael Sata.
Sata passed away in London last week on Tuesday while he was undergoing treatment at a private hospital for an undisclosed illness. He was 77.
People from all walks of life turned up at the residence of the Acting Zambian High Commissioner to Namibia, Dorothy Nachilongo, to express their condolences since the book of condolence was opened at the residence on Monday.
In Lusaka, Zambians formed long queues since yesterday to pay their last respects to their beloved,
polulist leader who assummed office in 2011 after he failed in three previous attempts at the highly coveted and ultimate office in politics.
Sata’s body, which was repatriated on Saturday, is to lie in state for a week in the capital Lusaka until November 11 when he will be interred.
Among the people that signed the book of condolence in Windhoek was Algerian Ambassador to Namibia Lahcene Kaid-Slimane. He expressed his sympathy saying on behalf of the Government and People of Algeria and the staff of the Algerian Embassy that he wished to convey their heartfelt condolences to the first family, to the government and people of Zambia.
“We wish them strength during their difficult and trying times.”
Kaid-Slimane said that at this time of sadness, Algeria shares the pain of Zambia, two sister countries bound by historical relations of friendship and cooperation.
“Reiterating our deepest condolences and sympathy, we wish that the Republic of Zambia continues its march towards progress and development.”
Doreen Matemba, from the Zimbabwean Embassy in Windhoek wrote that the death of Sata has not only robbed Zambia of an inspirational, dedicated and great leader but the SADC family and Zambia in particular of a reliable friend whose immeasurable contribution to the development of positive relations between Zimbabwe and Zambia will always be cherished.