55 Views President Hakainde Hichilema has eulogized the late former Vice-President and Acting President Dr. Guy Scott as a courageous leader who put country above ambition and chose peace over political turmoil. Speaking during a memorial service in honor of Dr. Scott at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, Hichilema said the […]

55 Views

President Hakainde Hichilema has eulogized the late former Vice-President and Acting President Dr. Guy Scott as a courageous leader who put country above ambition and chose peace over political turmoil.

Speaking during a memorial service in honor of Dr. Scott at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, Hichilema said the late statesman played a key role in safeguarding Zambia’s democracy during one of country’s most sensitive moments.

“At a time when internal issues in the PF were very intense following the death of President Michael Sata, Dr. Scott provided steady leadership during the transition period. He stood his ground, chose peace and national duty, and helped Zambia remain a peaceful country,” the President said.

Dr. Scott served as Acting President from October 2014 to January 2015 following President Sata’s death, before handing over power after the presidential by-election.

President Hichilema described Dr. Scott as a fearless unifier whose greatest strength was his ability to transcend tribe, race and political lines.

“Dr. Scott never saw ethnicity, race or colour. He built bridges and brought people together because he believed in One Zambia, One Nation,” he said.

The President also paid tribute to Dr. Scott’s contribution to agriculture, noting that past food shortages had fueled unrest, especially on the Copperbelt. He said agricultural stability was central to national peace — a cause Dr. Scott championed.

President Hichilema further recalled Dr. Scott’s grasp of economic issues, including the dangers of unsustainable borrowing, and his consistent call for dialogue on matters of national interest.

Reflecting on their personal relationship, the President said he and Dr. Scott developed a close rapport after 2021.

One outcome of that engagement, he said, was Government’s decision to formally recognize former Vice-Presidents through appointments as Special Envoys, and to secure their retirement benefits through legislation passed by Parliament.

“I thank Parliament for passing that law. It is an important step toward honoring former national leaders for their service to the country,” President Hichilema said.

He urged Zambians to emulate Dr. Scott’s values of courage, unity, constitutionalism and selfless service, adding that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.