Sata’s death a loss to SADC region-Tanzania Veep

Tanzanian Vice President Muhamed Gharib Bilal says the death of President Michael Sata is a great loss to the SADC region.

Dr Bilal said this upon arrival in the country for the state funeral of the late president.

He said it was retrogressive that SADC had lost a gallant leader at a time when the region was facing challenges.

Dr Bilal said he was saddened with President Sata’s death because he personally enjoyed good relations with him.

Dr Bilal who was accompanied by his wife Zakiya who arrived at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at 12:05hours aboard a private jet.

He was received by Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister Gabriel Namulambe.

And South African first lady Bongekile Zuma and Swaziland Prime Minister Barnabas Sibusiso Dhalamini have also arrived to attended President Sata’s burial.

The dual arrived at 12:30 hours aboard South African airways.

Mrs Zuma and Dr Dhalamini were received by Home Affairs Deputy Minister Steven Kampyongo and Chief and Traditional Affairs Minister Susan Kawandami.

President Sata who died in London on October 28 will be put to rest tomorrow at Embassy Park.