Former Vice President is Dead

The Zambian government has announced the death of former Zambian Vice President and former Acting President Guy Scott at the age of 82 after an illness.

President Hakainde Hichilema announced on July 15 2026 that Scott will be accorded a state funeral in recognition of his contribution to Zambia’s public service and national development.

Scott served as Zambia’s vice president from 2011 under the administration of the late President Michael Sata.

Following Sata’s death in October 2014, he assumed the role of acting president, overseeing the country’s leadership until January 2015.

Scott’s Career

His appointment marked a historic moment, as he became the first white leader to serve as head of state in mainland Africa since the end of apartheid-era leadership in South Africa.

The late Scott was born in Livingstone to parents of Scottish origin and he perused higher education in Economics in Cambridge before he embarked on his political career in Zambia.

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During his time in the government Scott held several senior positions and was also regarded as a key figure in the Patriotic Front Administration.

Scott was a founding member of the Patriotic Front and served as Member of Parliament for Lusaka Central. He also held Cabinet positions, including Minister of Agriculture.

2015 Presidential Elections

His time as the acting president came automatically after the death of president Sata.

Despite Scott being able to serve as the acting president of Zambia, he was not eligible to contest for the 2015 presidential elections.

The Zambian constitution at the time required presidential candidates to have Zambian parents by birth which ultimately removed him from the race.

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After the announcement of his death tributes have began pouring in from political leaders and members of the public with many acknowledging his role in Zambia’s governance.

The government of Zambia is expected to make an announcement regarding the late Scott’s funeral arrangements and national mourning arrangements to honour him.

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Former Zambian Vice President and former Acting President Guy Scott
PHOTO/File