By MICHAEL MIYOBA
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has wished Chipolopolo captain Enock Mwepu all the best as he begins his next chapter after being forced to end his playing career following the diagnosis of a hereditary heart condition.
Hichilema said Mwepu would assist in inspiring new players after the un[1]fortunate end to his football career due to a condition that can put him at high risk of suffering a potentially fatal cardiac event. “Enock ‘Computer’ Mwepu is down but not out. We know that you will assist in inspiring new players who will follow in your footsteps. All the best as you start the next chapter of your life,” Hichilema said.
And Minister of Sports Youth and Arts Elvis Nkandu described the unfortunate end of Mwepu’s football career as devastating. “This is a huge blow not only for Enock Mwepu but also to us as the nation, however, he has to put his health and his family first and this is the right decision.
“As Government, we wish to thank the Chipolopolo captain for all his hard work and dedication to the sport of football at various national levels,” Nkandu said. “Mwepu has always been a wonderful player and a marvel to watch. He will always be remembered as such. We appreciate every moment of his effort on and off the pitch.” Meanwhile, Ministry of Sports Youth and Arts Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe said; “This is indeed a sad day for Zambia and the world at large. “Enock Mwepu has hang his boots due to a medical condition, a necessary but painful move for him. As Permanent Secretary, in charge of sportsmen and women, I have received the news with so much shock and pain knowing that such a brilliant player has to halt his football prowess.” Chileshe noted that Zambians would miss their captain who was a marvel to watch whenever he played and rose through the ranks to become the Chipolopolo Captain and also play in the English Premier League.
