By OLIVER SAMBOKO
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema says late former President Rupiah Banda had a unique ability to calm the atmosphere even in the midst of great tension in the country.
He was addressing mourners at the requiem church service for the country’s fourth President at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka yesterday.
President Hichilema said Mr Banda was a strong believer in service to nation and will be remembered as a man of integrity who promoted peace and love.
Mr Hichilema said the fallen former president looked at people on the positive side and that his humility and ability to create a calm atmosphere even when there was tension will always be remembered.
He said the nation must learn from the life of Mr Banda.
President Hichilema said Mr Banda will remain in the history books as a distinguished leader who served the country, the region, the continent of Africa and beyond in many aspects and roles.
He expressed gratitude to the first lady, Thandiwe Banda and the family for allowing Government to mourn with them.
Mr Hichilema said during the sickness of Mr Banda, the family opened its doors to him to visit Mr Banda and also after his death worked together with government in ensuring that he receives a befitting burial.
He thanked God for giving Zambia Mr Banda who was not only a good family man, a diplomat, politician, a great farmer but also an asset to the nation, in a country that sometimes face political divisions.
Mr Hichilema said Mr Banda was a selfless leader, family man whose life was dedicated to fostering social- economic development for the Zambians.
Meanwhile, scores of people lined up along Independence Avenue to pay their last respect to the late former president as his body was being driven from Maina Soko Medical Centre mortuary to the Cathedral where hundreds had gathered for the church service.
Mr Banda’s body arrived at the Cathedral of The Holy Cross on a funeral cortege in the company of his widow, Thandiwe and other family members.
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