Ex-Zambia president Kenneth Kaunda dies, PM Modi mourns

Zambia's President Edgar Lungu on Thursday took to Facebook and wrote: "Dear KK, I learnt of your passing this afternoon with great sadness. You have gone at a time we least expected but we are comforted that you are now with Our Father, God Almighty in heaven."

"On behalf of the entire nation and on my own behalf I pray that the entire Kaunda family is comforted as we mourn our First President and true African icon.

May the soul of Dr Kenneth David Kaunda Rest In Eternal Peace', he added.

Condoling his death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Saddened to hear of the demise of Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda, a respected world leader and statesman. My deepest condolences to his family and the people of Zambia," Modi Tweeted.

Kaunda served as the first president of Zambia from 1964 to 1991.

Kaunda’s son, Kamarange, also confirmed his death on his Facebook account.

According to his administrative assistant Rodrick Ngolo, Kaunda had been feeling unwell and was admitted to the Maina Soko Medical Centre here. Later, the officials said that he was being treated for pneumonia.

He spearheaded the fights to end apartheid system. He also worked against AIDS.

The country has declared 21 days of mourning.