Secretary-General, Saddened by Death of Zambian President Michael Chilufya Sata, Praises His Commitment to Address Poverty

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Chilufya Sata, President of the Republic of Zambia, on 28 October while receiving treatment at a hospital in London.  He expresses his deepest condolences to late President Sata’s family, the Government and the people of Zambia.

As Zambia celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of its independence and of its membership to the United Nations, the Secretary-General recalls fondly his visit to Zambia in February 2012.  He pays tribute to late President Sata’s commitment to addressing the needs of the poor of Zambia and his vision for the country.

The Secretary-General notes Zambia’s long record of smooth and orderly presidential transitions in line with the country’s Constitution.  The United Nations will continue to support Zambia in its efforts to promote inclusive development and democratic rule.