The late Zambian ex-President Rupiah Banda has been laid to rest.
Rupiah died aged 85 years old in his home. He was battle with cancer.
The Friday (March 18, 2022) burial at the country's capital, Embassy Park in Lusaka was elaborate with the soldiers giving Banda a 21-gun salute, while others carried his casket from Lusaka's Anglican Cathedral of The Holy Cross to the burial site, while air force planes flew past.
He is remembered as "a man known for peace, humility and unity."
Senator Samuel Poghisio, EGH sent his condolences to the family saying, "My condolences to the people of Zambia for the passing of Rupia Banda their former President.
As an observer in the last general election, I noted that he was very active in ensuring a smooth transfer of power. He opened his home to part of our delegation. May God rest his soul."
Banda held several senior diplomatic posts under post-independence President Kenneth Kaunda.
Rupiah has been survived by his second wife, Thandiwe, and eight children.
Back in 2016, radio king, Maina Kageni meet with the late president. He gushed about it saying, "Absolutely honoured, humbled and privileged to have met with former President of Zambia, H.E. Rupia Banda!"
Check out photos of state burial.
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