MDC Alliance Mourns 'Pan-African Leader' Kenneth Kaunda - Full Statement
CONDOLENCE MESSAGE ON THE PASSING OF HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT KENNETH DAVID KAUNDA
The MDC Alliance has learnt with profound sadness of the passing of Zambia’s founding President and pan-African leader par-excellence, President Kenneth David Kaunda, at the age of 97 years.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Kaunda family and the people of Zambia on this loss.
President Kaunda lived an extraordinary and exemplary life that embodied the pan-African values of selflessness, service, sacrifice and solidarity.
The liberation history of southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, can never be written without acknowledging the important role played by President Kaunda.
Affectionately known as “KK’, President Kaunda worked tirelessly with other leaders of the frontline states to ensure that the region was liberated from the shackles of colonial domination and apartheid.
He was a founding father of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).
President Kaunda was also one of the first African leaders to hand over power peacefully following an electoral defeat in 1991.
He dedicated his postpresidency era to worthy causes including the fight against HIV/AIDS. Africa has lost a great statesman and one of its iconic giants!
In the true sense of our African philosophy of ubuntu and in recognition of the immense contribution of this great son of the soil to Zimbabwe’s independence, Zimbabwe must immediately declare a period of mourning.
Rest In Peace, KK.
One Zambia, One Nation!
Gladys Kudzaishe Hlatywayo
Secretary for International Relations