MEDIA STATEMENT

For Immediate Release

 LUSAKA, Monday, January 16, 2012 –His Excellency Mr Michael Chilufya Sata, President of the Republic of Zambia, is deeply saddened at the passing of former Bank of Zambia Governor, academician and veteran sports administrator, David Phiri who died in Lusaka this morning.

In his message of condolences to the Phiri family, the President observed that the late Mr Phiri rendered a great service to the nation across many spheres where he demonstrated exceptional skill and talent.

“David was a multi-talented person who demonstrated excellence in the many assignments he executed during his tour of duty. Therefore, his irreplaceable and distinguished services will be greatly missed,” President Sata says.

The President recalls that the late Mr Phiri’s life can be told through many facets across many disciplines especially through his service in the mining sector where he started his career, sports fraternity and banking and economic circles where he played a pivotal role to promote investments in the country.

“David’s career in both the public and private sector is a shining example that must inspire younger generations to work hard and maintain high levels of integrity and dedication to the service of humanity,” the President says.

“I remember David from his early days as a management trainee in the mining industry to the apex of his career as head of the Central Bank, he led by example as a committed employee with an impressive work ethic. This, he also demonstrated in the academia when he served as Chairman of the University of Zambia Council.”

The President said one of the greatest memories of the late Mr Phiri will be his strong resolve to restructure the Bank of Zambia and the clean-up of the physical environment at the Central Bank premises.

“On behalf of the Zambian government and indeed on my own behalf, kindly accept our heartfelt condolences on this tragic loss.”

Issued by:

GEORGE CHELLAH

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT

PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS