On behalf of my family, I offer my deepest condolences to the Government and people of Zambia on the passing of the nation's 4th President, His Excellency Rupiah Bwezani Banda, who died on March 11, 2022 at the age 85 years.
Late President Banda was a renowned statesman and pan-Africanist whose deep sense of patriotism and love for peace left deep impressions in the hearts and minds of his people and endeared him to many beyond the shores of his nation.
He was a well-rounded democrat who served his nation to the best of his abilities in various positions as a parliamentarian, cabinet minister, vice president, and president. He also made his mark as a top diplomat and international civil servant, lending his experience and wisdom to the efforts to bring peace and stability to some troubled parts of the world.
President Banda and I enjoyed close relations and friendship, which we managed to sustain over the years, in view of our shared dreams for democracy and the good of our continent. Our last meeting was in 2016 in his house in Lusaka when I visited with him and shared a meal with his family while leading the African Union Election Observation Mission to that year's Zambian elections.
I am glad that we continued to keep in touch and share same platforms at different international assignments, after leaving office.
May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his grieving family and nation.
- GEJ
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