SADC Mourn Dr. Guy Scott, Reaffirms Commitment to Peace

The Southern African Development Community, SADC, has conveyed its heartfelt condolences to President Hakainde Hichilema, the Government of Zambia and the family of former Vice President and Acting President Dr. Guy Scott, who passed away in Lusaka on Wednesday.

Speaking during the opening of the 28th Ministerial Meeting of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation in Salima, Malawi, SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi described Dr. Scott's passing as a great loss to Zambia and the region, saying the thoughts and prayers of the SADC community are with the bereaved family and the people of Zambia.

Mr. Magosi also reaffirmed SADC's commitment to maintaining peace and security across Southern Africa, describing the region as one of the most peaceful on the African continent. However, he expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo despite continued diplomatic efforts, urging member states to remain committed to achieving lasting peace and stability.

Meanwhile, Malawi's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. George Chaponda, also extended condolences to Zambia, saying Malawi joins the rest of the SADC community in mourning Dr. Scott.

Dr. Scott served as Zambia's Vice President from 2011 to 2014 and later became Acting President following the death of President Michael Sata before handing over power to President Edgar Lungu after the 2015 presidential by-election. The two-day ministerial meeting continues in Salima, Malawi, with ministers responsible for defence, foreign affairs and home affairs from SADC member states in attendance.