Sad event occurred in Zambia few days ago when the country lost Information and Broadcasting Services Minister, Kennedy Sakeni.

CEOAFRICA.com gathered that Mr. Sakeni, 56, who was the spokesperson of the Michael Sata-led administration, died at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka after a brief illness.

President Michael Sata, in his condolence message sent to the family of the deceased, described the death of Mr. Sakeni as “heartbreaking.” The President’s statement, as released by State House Special Assistant for Press and Public Relations, George Chellah in Lusaka, and directed to the Widow of the deceased reads, ” It is with deep sorrow and grief that I learnt of the death of your dear husband, Mr. Sakeni, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services of the Republic of Zambia.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Zambia and indeed on my own behalf, I extend my highest and sincere condolences to you, the children and our party the Patriotic Front (PF) for this painful loss.”

Furthermore, the President said it was indeed tragic that the nation had lost a leader who rendered a gallant service to the country in the various distinguished portfolios he had.

Mr. Sakeni during his lifetime, had worked as a career intelligence officer in the Zambia Security Intelligence Service (ZSIS), as Member of Parliament for Chifunabuli, as deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Luapula Province, and more recently as Member of Parliament for Mansa Centre, Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services as well as PF Luapula Province chairperson.

“No doubt, the Zambian people and his closer family in the PF feel deeply sad for the loss of this national leader of Mr. Sakeni’s standing and public service credentials, and share your family’s grief. Indeed, we have lost a great leader and a resolved politician and businessman.” The President further said.

Mr. President has therefore announced that a State funeral would be organized for the fallen minister.