Zambia’s ailing founding father and former president Kenneth Kaunda has died at the age of 97 a day after his Covid-19 test results were returned negative.
“It is with deep regret and sorrow that His Excellency Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia announces to the nation and the international community, the passing of our beloved founding father, icon and global statesman, His Excellency Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda,” said the statement from the Zambia government.
The much loved and respected veteran humanist was hospitalised on Monday.
The Zambian government declared 21 days of national mourning in honour of Kaunda. During the mourning period, flags will fly at half-mast and all entertainment activities will be banned.
Affectionately known as “KK” Kaunda had been admitted at the Maina Soko Medical Centre in Lusaka.
Kaunda ruled Zambia from 1964, when the southern African nation won its independence from Britain, until 1991.
On Monday Rodrick Ngolo, who is KK’s administrative assistant, said: “His Excellency Dr. Kaunda is requesting all Zambians and the international community to pray for him as the medical team is doing everything to ensure he recovers”.
