Ban Saddened By Death of Zambian President

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed profound sadness today after learning of the death of the President of Zambia, Levy Patrick Mwanawasa.

"Mr. Mwanawasa was at the forefront of Zambian politics at a time of exceptional challenge and change in his country," Mr. Ban said in a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3364">statement issued by his spokesperson in which he offered condolences to the late President's family, and the people and Government of Zambia.

The statement also noted Mr. Mwanawasa's key role in the struggle to end apartheid in South Africa as well as his firm stance as Southern African Development Community (SADC) chairman on the post-election crisis in Zimbabwe.

Mr. Ban said he greatly valued recent conversations with Mr. Mwanawasa over Zimbabwe as he wished "the people of Zambia and the region courage and fortitude in the time ahead."

Source: United Nations

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