By Raphael Oni
The Zambia High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Salomon S. Jere has refuted the viral post making waves in the social media that Zambia’s founding President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda is dead.
Jere clearly affirmed that the 96 years old Kaunda is very much alive and in good spirit. He debunked this rumour, Wednesday while addressing journalists in Abuja at Zambia House.
In his words, “We would like to inform all Zambians resident in West Africa and the International Community at large that Zambia’s founding president is still very much alive. He is fine and in good spirit. We urge everyone to ignore the contemptible rumours circulating on social media.”
Jere further stated that Kaunda was on of the leaders of the Frontline States including Nigeria, Tanzania and Zambia that helped in the liberation of most of Southern Africa from colonialism.
In the same vein the Office of Zambia’s First President has refuted social media reports alleging that Dr Kenneth Kaunda has died.
Dr Kaunda’s Administrative Assistant Rodrick Ngolo said in a press statement released to ZANIS in Lusaka, that Zambia’s founding President is still very much alive.
Mr Ngolo said social media reports originating from West Africa are not true as Dr Kaunda is alive.According to him, “We would like to inform all Zambians and the international community out there that Dr Kenneth Kaunda is fine and in good spirit”.
Mr Ngolo regretted that people could condescend and wish an international statesman’s death. In his words, “It is sad that some individuals can stoop so low to start spreading such despicable rumours”.
The Zambia High Commissioner to Nigeria inform media men that the former President is 96 and will turn 97 on April 28, this year as such inviting the general public to visit him in order to join him celebrate his birthday.
