Mbala Mayor-Elect Dies Six Days After Election

Mbala Mayor-Elect Steward Simutenda Dies After Illness Shortly After Winning Mbala Mayoral Race

Mbala, Zambia — Mbala District has been plunged into mourning following the death of newly elected mayor Steward Simutenda, who reportedly passed away in the early hours of today, just six days after being elected.

Simutenda contested the mayoral election on the NRPUP ticket and was declared the winner following Thursday’s elections.

Mayor-Elect Had Been Hospitalised

According to reports, Simutenda had been battling an illness and was hospitalised approximately a week before the elections after falling ill.

Despite his health challenges, he reportedly participated in the election and went on to secure victory, setting the stage for his expected tenure as mayor of Mbala.

His death now comes less than one week after the election, bringing his time as mayor-elect to an abrupt end before he could fully begin serving in the position.

Death Sends Shockwaves Through Mbala

News of Simutenda’s death has reportedly shocked residents, political supporters and members of the community who had expected to see him take up his new responsibilities following the election.

His victory had marked a significant moment in his political career, but his sudden death has now left the community mourning a leader who had only recently received a mandate from voters.

Funeral Arrangements Expected

Further details surrounding the circumstances of his death, as well as funeral and burial arrangements, are expected to be communicated by his family and relevant authorities.

Political colleagues, residents and supporters are expected to pay tribute to the late mayor-elect in the coming days as Mbala mourns his passing.

Simutenda’s death also leaves questions regarding the next steps for the Mbala mayoral position following the loss of the person who had just been elected to the office.