Queen Elizabeth, World Leaders Pay Tribute To Rupiah Banda

Foreign leaders from around the world, including Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, have joined in paying tribute to the late Zambian President Rupiah Banda, following his death last week.

In a message to President Hakainde Hichilema, the Queen described Mr Banda as a ceaseless advocate for peace, reconciliation and democracy, who had a lifelong record of service to the people of Zambia.

She expressed her deep sadness that Zambia has lost a second great statesman in less than a year, following the death of founding President Kenneth Kaunda in 2021. 

The Queen, who is also Head of the Commonwealth, urged Zambians to take pride in their legacy of both Mr Banda and Dr Kaunda as great leaders of their nation. 

Britain’s High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, also paid homage to the late president, describing Mr Banda’s enthusiasm for deeper connections with Britain through football, technology and science. 

Likewise, China’s Charge d’Affaires Lai Bo issued a statement of condolence, saying Mr Banda would be remembered as an old friend to the Chinese people. 

“I wish to express our deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to you and the bereaved family,” he said.  

Similar statements have also been issued by countries including Japan and Namibia.