Ban pays tribute to late Zambian President Michael Chilufya Sata

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon paid tribute today to Zambia’s late President Michael Chilufya Sata, praising his vision for the country and commitment to addressing the needs of Zambia’s poor.

President Sata died on 28 October while receiving treatment at a hospital in London.

In a statement from his spokesperson, Mr. Ban expressed his sadness over President Sata’s passing and extended his deepest condolences to his family, the Government and the people of Zambia.

Noting that Zambia was celebrating its 50th year anniversary of independence and of its membership to the UN, Mr. Ban fondly recalled his visit to the country in 2012 and added that Zambia had a “long record of smooth and orderly presidential transitions.”

“The United Nations will continue to support Zambia in its efforts to promote inclusive development and democratic rule,” Mr. Ban said.