TURKEY: President Erdogan condoles Chilengi family, Zambians for the death of ambassador

By: Ollus Ndomu

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Wednesday made a phone call to Mrs. Ivy Chilengi, widow of late Zambia’s Ambassador to Turkey, Dr. Joseph Chilengi, to personally condole the family and Zambians at large.

Speaking through interpreter, President Erdogan also disclosed to Mrs. Chilengi that his had prepared a military aircraft to repatriate the remains of Dr. Chilengi to Zambia.

“I wish you God’s blessing during this trying time,” President Erdogan said.

The President also pledged the Turkish Government’s support to Mrs. Chilengi and the family.

Meanwhile, Zambian Students Association in Turkey (ZASAT) president Machoman Mweemba mourned the loss ambassador Chilengi, describing him as a parent and leader who valued working with students to address their challenges.

“Dr Chilengi was a man who had unquestionable love, patriotism and loyalty to the affairs of our great nation, the Republic of Zambia. The Ambassador will be remembered as a great leader who was there for the association when it needed him most, “Mr Mweemba said.

Ambassador Chilengi aged 61, died on May 11, 2021 at Güven Hospital in Ankara where he was receiving medical attention.