Zambia President Sata - Zambian President Michael Sata has died in London while receiving medical treatment from a hospital, a statement released by the Zambian government on Wednesday revealed.
According to reports, the 77 years old Zambia President Sata died at 11p.m. on Tuesday in the King Edward VII Hospital. The vocal leader, widely referred to as 'king cobra', was the fifth president of Zambia.
There had been concerns about the state of his health since he was declared winner of the September 2011 Zambian presidential election. These concerns grew in intensity after he uncharacteristically stopped making public appearances.
The cause of Zambia President Sata's death has not been revealed. Officials have only disclosed that he traveled to London to receive medical treatment for an illness. But the illness which he was seeking treatment for has also not been divulged by Zambian authorities.
"As you are aware, the president was receiving medical attention in London," Cabinet Secretary Roland Msiska said in a televised broadcast.
Guy Lindsay Scott, the Vice President, would serve as acting leader of the southern Africa country.
According to CNN, the 70 years old Zambian of Scottish descent will be the first white head of state in Africa since apartheid.
"Dr Scott will act as the president of the Republic of Zambia until the county goes for a presidential by-election," Lungu said.
Meanwhile, Acting President Guy has announced that elections for the next head of the country will be held in 90 days. Under the Zambian 1996 constitution, Dr. Scott is ineligible to run for the presidency because his parents are not Zambians.
The professional economist has announced that the period of national mourning officially commenced today. He noted that "We miss our beloved president and comrade."
Zambia President Sata was a bonafide political veteran. He has rubbed shoulders with some of the most important people in the history of the country, including its first leader Kenneth Kaunda.
