Kabwata MP Levy Mkandawire Dies

The MP for Kabwata Constituency, Levy Mkandawire, has died after being struck by a car outside his house in Woodlands, Lusaka. 

The United Party for National Development politician was hit while stationary in his vehicle outside his home on Chalata Road. The 60 year old sustained head injuries as well as a fractured right leg and died while being taken to University Teaching Hospital. 

Police have identified the driver of the other car, a BMW X5, as Jane Mwale: a 39-year-old woman who also lives on Chalata road. It is not known whether she sustained any injuries, however her husband, Kalengo Jetta Alick, told officers he had a headache following the incident. Ms Mwale was not found at the scene. 

Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said the accident happened when the BMW was approaching from the east at excessive speed, causing the driver to lose control before smashing into Mr Mkandawire’s stationary Toyota as he stopped to open the gate. 

The impact forced the Toyota against the brick wall, crushing Mr Mkandwire before a pillar of the gate fell on him. 

Mr Hamoonga said that police were working to locate the driver of the other vehicle. 

Mr Mkandawire was elected to Kabwata Constituency in August’s general elections, having previously served as Mayor of Lusaka. He was married with four children.

Reacting to news of the MP’s death, President Hakainde Hichilema wrote on social media that he wished his family “God’s comfort during this difficult time”.

“We call on fellow Zambians to come through in prayer for the bereaved family,” he added.