UPND, MMD hail Sata

—The opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) and the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) have paid glowing tribute to late President, Michael Sata, for his contribution to the growth of the country.

UPND Deputy Spokesperson, Edwin Lifwekelo, said the death of President Sata is a big loss to the nation as he had great vision on how to develop the country.

Mr Lifwekelo, who worked with President Sata during the time he served as Patriotic Front Secretary General, said the late President had a great passion for the poor as well as infrastructural development as it can be seen from the boom in construction activities from the time he assumed the Presidency.

He told ZANIS in an interview in Lusaka today that Zambians need to emulate the leadership style of the late former Head of State which he described as practical.

He said Mr Sata was generally a simple but practical person who wanted things to be done as he was aggressive in terms of energy, adding that this is the type of leadership which Zambians must seek.

Mr Lifwekelo further stated that he will remember President Sata for his honesty, courage and determination to make things happen even in the face of adversity.

He hoped Mr Sata’s demise will not leave room for any anarchy in the country or disintegration of the PF itself.

Mr Lifwekelo has since called on all political players and civil society to come together and emulate his leadership in order to harmonise what he stood for.

He further expressed optimism that there will be continuity by whoever will take over from the late former Head of State.

Mr Lifwekelo also called on the people of Zambia regardless of their political affiliation to remain united and foster unity of purpose as the country mourns late President Sata.

And MMD Lusaka Province Chairperson, Watson Mtonga, praised President Sata for the selfless service he provided to the country not only as President but through the various portfolios he held during his time in the public service.

He said President Sata’s contribution to the development of the country cannot be overlooked as he served the nation with honour and dignity.

Mr Mtonga said the late President’s contribution to the enhancement of democratic tenets in the country will remain printed in the annals of Zambia’s history.

He said Mr Sata identified himself with the poor, noting that, this was why he was very eager to work on projects such as the construction of roads, schools and hospitals which would help rise people’s welfare.

President Sata, who died in London at King Edward VII Hospital on October 28, 2014, will be put to rest on November 11, 2014 at Embassy Park in Lusaka.