By CHINOYI CHIPULU
The Independent Observer (TIO) founder and Chingola Press Club interim president John Chinya Sakala has been interred.
Mr Sakala, 46, who died on Tuesday at Kitwe Teaching Hospital after battling with Kidney failure was buried on Thursday at Chingola central Cemetery.
Lulamba ward Councillor Samuel Simpito described Mr Sakala as a good man who accommodated everyone.
“Mr Sakala was a good man who accommodated everyone despite of their political background. We have lost a man who wanted to unite all political parties because we are one,” said Mr Simpito in a speech read on his behalf by Temani Banda the former Councillor.
And Kitwe Press Club Vice Chairperson Clinton Masumba said Mr Sakala’s death has robbed the industry of gallant man who contributed so much to the media not only on the Copperbelt but also the country.
“He believed in creating employment for many and he did this directly and indirectly. Others have gained experience through him and have gone to work for other media institutions around the country. We will remember him for the passion he had for the media and bringing out issues affecting communities with high standards of ethics.
“To the Independent observer publication, Mr Sakala had a vision, this should not die with him, carry on and we will offer our support because his legacy should live on,” said Mr Masumba, a Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation Kitwe based reporter.
And Chingola Press Club Secretary General Namutenga Kalunga said Mr Sakala will be greatly missed by all.
Peoples from different walks of life attended the burial for Mr Sakala,who also worked for Times of Zambia before setting up TIO.
Mr Sakala has left behind a wife and three children.
