"The Zambian government has requested for an explanation from the government of the Republic of South Africa on the statement attributed to President Thabo Mbeki that President Mwanawasa had passed away. Foreign Affairs minister Kabinga Pande confirmed this in a statement to ZANIS in Lusaka this evening. President Mbeki is reported to have asked people to observe a minute of silence when was speaking at the National Memorial Tribute for victims of violence against foreign nationals and South Africans held at Tshwane City Hall in South Africa yesterday. And on President Levy Mwanawasa’s latest update, Vice President, Rupiah Banda said that President Mwanawasa has continued to receive treatment for hypertension at the Percy Military Hospital in Paris, France. He said Dr. Mwanawasa remains in a stable condition.
This is according to a statement posted on the Statehouse Web site. Mr. Banda said Dr. Mwanawasa had the usual review by specialist doctors today Friday. He said Dr. Mwanawasa’s next review is due on Monday. The Vice President said the First Lady, Maureen Mwanawasa and family members continue to be at the President’s bed side. And Chief Government Spokesperson, Mike Mulongoti has urged people wishing to travel to Paris - France to visit the President not to do so. Mr. Mulongoti said this is because Dr. Mwanawasa is admitted to Percy Military Hospital which is highly restricted to visitors. He said this is why people are being advised against undertaking such a visit. Mr. Mulongoti was speaking this afternoon with ZNBC news." Any reasonable Zambian would support this move considering the fact that the President is still alive. Whether his condition is serious or not, doesn't give any justification of Mbeki's actions. Most people have critised the government for doing so. Hola! We are talking about a state President here. Why should Mbeki jump out to announce the death of a head of state, before the state itself said anything. He should have been advised better. To me, Mbeki’s actions portrait his poor qualities as a leader.
From another point of view, I see this as I move against Mwanawasa’s stand against Mugabe. Of all the African leaders, he is the only one who is bold enough to speak the truth. Long live Levy. Atleast, he has set a lot of things straight for us.
The Zambian people were aware of Levy’s condition even before electing him for presidency. So, him falling into a comma is no big surprise. I just hope that he stablizes quickly and nominates somebody to continue what he started. Lets give credit and well wishes to the man who has helped build our economy and country. Unite and help in solving problems for the betterment of our nation. One Zambia, One nation! |
