Stakeholders have remembered and praised Zambia’s fourth late President, Rupiah Banda, for his contribution to the country’s political and economic history.
As tomorrow, March 11th, marks his fourth memorial, the late former President, fondly known as RB, has been described as a leader who promoted diplomacy, peace and stability in Zambia’s politics.
Political Analyst, Oment Siachekutu has labeled late President Banda’s leadership as a period defined by diplomacy, stability, and continuity, especially during a critical transition in the country’s political history, following the death of his predecessor, Levy Mwanawasa.
Mr Siachekutu said in an interview that Mr Banda’s leadership style was largely shaped by his diplomatic background, which influenced his approach to governance and national development
“He was a seasoned diplomat and brought a unique approach to governance because he focused on economic development, stability, and national unity,” he added.
University of Zambia Historian, Bizeck Phiri, said in a separate interview that the late President Banda belonged to a generation of leaders who helped shape Zambia’s diplomatic presence in the early years after independence.
“In his humbleness, he accepted that responsibility. He stepped in, not out of personal ambition, but because the country needed guidance,” Prof Phiri said.
