By Linda Kwanjana
Malawi Leader President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera says he is deeply concerned over the demise of Former Malawi Congress Party (MCP) President John Zenus Ungapake Tembo.
Tembo died earlier Wednesday following a diabetic attack. In a statement, soon after the sad news, Chakwera says Tembo was a pillar in the history of Malawi Politics.
“The First Lady and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Rt. Hon. Dr. John Zenus Ungapake Tembo, a pillar in the history of Malawian politics, ” reads the statement in part.
Chakwera says Rt. Hon. Dr. JZU Tembo had extensive experience as a cabinet member, with his contributions to the country spanning six decades, including his role as the first Malawian Minister of Finance and Governor of the Reserve Bank.
The president says Tembo served as a Member of Parliament from 1961 to 2014, playing a pivotal role in the establishment and governance of numerous successful institutions in the country.
Chakwera says his unwavering commitment to the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and his instrumental role in facilitating a democratic transfer of power
within the party in 2013 will forever be etched in the nation’s political history.
“He stood as a pillar of strength during challenging times, ensuring that the MCP remained a formidable force, even in the face of adversity,” reads the statement.
The statement further recounts that his wisdom transcended generations and his unwavering passion for the nation and that his legacy is one of resilience, dedication and unparalleled knowledge.
“We will, therefore, remember Rt. Hon. Dr. John Tembo not only as a political stalwart but also as a source of inspiration and a repository of knowledge, ” President Chakwera says.