Zambian President Michael Sata has died at the age of 77 after receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness, the government says.
President Sata, who was being treated in the UK, died in London’s King Edward VII hospital on Tuesday night.
Media said that he died after “a sudden onset [of] heightened heart rate”.
It is not immediately clear who will succeed the president. The issue may be decided by the Zambian cabinet which meets on Wednesday morning.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing on of our beloved president,” cabinet secretary Roland Msiska said on national TV.
He said that Mr Sata’s wife and son were at his bedside.
“I urge all of you to remain calm, united and peaceful during this very difficult period,” Mr Msiska added.
Guy Scott named interim Zambia President
Zambian Vice President Guy Scott has been named acting leader following the death of President Michael Sata, Defence and Justice minister Edgar Lungu said Wednesday.
“Dr Scott will act as president of the Republic of Zambia until the country goes for a presidential by-election,” said Lungu, announcing the appointment of Africa’s first white leader since South Africa’s FW de Klerk.
Additional reporting,BBC and Daily Nation
