Dear Ministry Family,

Words fail me in describing my own feelings at the arrival of, and ceremony for receiving the First family and coffin of President, Patrick Levy Mwanawassa back home to Zambian soil after he died in France on Tuesday. The president was reported as having died in Egypt in June where he was attending a session to try to help resolve the struggles in Zimbabwe. That report was in error. It was later learned that he was transported to France where he remained in ICU on life support. I admired this president for his stand against corruption and saw growth and development during his 7 years in office. He was a strong man of Christian faith.

Throughout the proceedings the name of Jesus Christ was lifted up in word and song. The first president, Kenneth Kaunda reminded the nation that we are Christians and need to behave as Christ would want us to as we mourn, and then move on with electing our next president.

When the procession left the airport, I walked outside to watch as it passed by the House of Moses where thousands of people were waiting.

He will lie in state until next week when the First family and the body will travel to each of the 9 Provinces allowing the rest of the nation to mourn and pay its last respects. He will be buried in his home village on September 3rd, the date of his 60th birthday.

The Zambian Constitution is very clear about the process of electing a new President; however, there are 12 political parties each vying for the chance to put forth a candidate within the stipulated 90 day period. The next president will serve for 3 years, completing the term of office of the late president. Thankfully, everything is as it should be; orderly and peaceful.

This is a very critical time for Zambia. The most important role for those of us that love this nation is to join with our friends in prayer for a competent, righteous and just, next president.

Sandra – An Adopted Zambia