DEATH has no comprehension in the minds of human beings but only leaves an engraved, and deep sense of loss and sadness.
Such is the feeling that has once again dawned Zambian skies and beyond, as we mourn the demise of our Fifth Republican President Michael Chilufya Sata, who has died aged 77.
This saddening period reminds many of the death of President Levy Mwanawasa on August 19, 2008.
Through all these trying moments, devastating as they have come, Zambians have remained a united people and have forged ahead.
Fondly known as the ‘King Cobra’ President Sata died at London’s King Edward VII Hospital on Tuesday evening, where he had travelled for medical attention.
A dedicated Catholic and a true son of our great nation, President Sata’s term in office, though short the journey could have been, has brought a positive change in different spheres of national management.
Since forming the Patriotic Front (PF) in 2001, the late President remained focused to one day become Head of State, and this came to fruition in the 2011 general elections following a landslide victory that ushered him into office.
A robust approach to economic revitalisation was his badge of leadership. Road and railway infrastructural construction and rehabiliation, among many, were dear to his heart.
His belief was that Zambia needed improved infrastructure, especially in the two sectors, so that investment could continue pouring in, for better economic performance.
This indelible mark made him a leader of profound dedication and zeal.
It is nothing but a legacy, something that Zambians will always remember him for.
It is vital that such dreams should not stop at this crucial time, as people ought to continue, developmental works started by Mr Sata which were intended to benefit all Zambians.
His way of making crowds burst into laughter while keeping pace with important issues was another attribute admired by many, at both local and international gatherings.
President Sata represented the nation even when there was speculation that he was unwell, yet he paid less attention to this and forged on to ensure all was well at home.
His party goes down in the country’s political history as being one of the strongest, both as an opposition and ruling party.
Even as Mr Sata is gone, the PF leadership should show to the Zambians and the outside world that they are able to lead this country.
Of great importance is that even after the death of the Head of State, for example, when the country was mourning Dr Mwanawasa’s death, uncertainty about the country’s future knocked hard on the doorsteps, but the former ruling party, MMD, came out of the situation and guided the country with assurance to our partners, that all was well.
This spirit should continue even as the country is mourning, national unity shall remain cardinal.
The late President Sata showed that he dearly loved this country and wanted prosperity for all. This legacy should not go down with him. We mourn his death as a country but we should also remain united as a people as this trying moment besieges Zambians once more.
The Office of President, that Mr Sata occupied, is significant because it represents all Zambians and is and will continue to be a unifying emblem.
The onus is on the PF leadership to continue to guide the nation on the solid foundation that the late Mr Sata and his predecessors have left.
Zambians mourn a great leader, a family man, a friend and brother to all. Farewell Mr President!  OPINION