Former Malawi Congress Party (MCP) President John Zenus Ungapake Tembo has been laid to rest with full military honors at Kaphala Village in the area of Senior Chief Kaphuka in Dedza district.
The burial ceremony was attended by President Lazarus Chakwera and First Lady Monica Chakwera.
Tembo died in Lilongwe on September 26, 2023 while receiving treatment at a private hospital. He was 91 years old.
Speaking during the funeral service held at Dedza Stadium Ground, Chakwera said Malawi has lost a man who channeled his energy towards the development of the nation and elevating his people.
“Today is a very big day for the country because we bid farewell to one of the elders who spearheaded the history and culture of the country. He was peaceful and was not involved in politics of insults, but lived with people in all three regions of the country in peace,” said Chakwera.
The President further described Tembo as a God fearing man who abided by the law and respected the constitution while serving in various top government positions and as the executive member for the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
“He was a man who worked hard to keep the party strong and represented the people well in Parliament. When it was his time to retire he went on his retirement peacefully. If it wasn’t for the groundwork he laid, I would not be standing here as your president,” said Chakwera.
He therefore asked Malawians to take this day as an opportunity to reflect on the future of the country and to work together in building a better Malawi for all.
On his part, MCP Secreatery General Mkaka said JZU fought a good fight and left the party in government.
He also hailed JZU for remaining firm and unshakable while the party faced various challenges.
First Deputy Speaker of Malawi Parliament Madalitso Kazombo said during his tenure as the leader of opposition, Tembo contributed greatly to the development of the country by ensuring that the voices of people from villages are heard.
“He was a loyal perfectionist who was dedicated and well focused on the work in front of him and did not forget his people,” said Kazombo, who also asked the president to name a road in the capital city after JZU in his honour.
Representing the Leader Opposition Kondwani Nankhumwa (DPP), Nicholas Dausi described JZU as a man of integrity and discipline.
He said JZU played a pivotal role in bringing peace in Mozambique during the war.
Speaking on behalf of the children, John Tembo Jnr said his father would have been pleased to see the unity that people have shown during his burial.
He said as a family, they have forgiven anyone who dented the image of his father on the political podium and advised people to learn from his father by living a life of dignity, respect for elders, integrity, discipline and hard work.
He then thanked the president for according his father’s burial full military honors, saying they do not take the gesture for granted.
On his part, Village Head Mphezi under Senior Chief Kapuka said the deceased was a father to many people in his area and advised the MCP leadership not to divide among themselves, saying this would honor the late his spirit.
Tembo begun his political career in 1961 and served as MCP national executive member until his retirement from politics in 2013.
He also served in various government positions like Minister of Finance and reserve bank governor. He also served as president of MCP and leader of opposition from 2003 to 2013.
Some public figures who attended the burial ceremony include Vice president Dr. saulosi Chilima, former president Bakili Muluzi, First Deputy Speaker of Malawi Parliament Madalitso Kazombo and former Vice President khumbo kachale.
By Blackson Mkupatira
