He was a man with a small stature. He died tall.
His rise from the shameful pits of poverty to become one of Zambia's most charismatic leaders stands out as an inspirational tale of one man's journey from struggles to glory.
In 1991, the nation was pregnant with hope, the birth pains of a new democratic dispensation had become strong. President Kaunda's One Party rule was fast coming to an end as discontent over his 27 year hold on power swept the nation like wildfire.
At the pedestal of change stood a firebrand trade Unionist leader. Frederick Chiluba was an eloquent man who had shot to national attention at the helm of a new political grouping that had come to challenge the godly dominance of UNIP.
When he stood up to speak at the numerous political rallies organised by Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), his wit and charm mesmerised many.
In the ensuing elections that followed the introduction of Plural politics in Zambia, Chiluba swept to victory by a landslide in polls that were largely declared free and fair and thus began the political career of one of the country's most controversial figures.
Many political commentators say it is invariably had to have a neutral position on Chiluba during his rule. He solicited the kind of emotions that would put one on both extreme ends of the argument.
His followers positively point out that his authority to change the country opened up Zambia's economy to investment and prosperity.
He empowered people with houses at a give away price, structures that still stand for many as his enduring legacy.
But the excruciating pain and suffering that had come with his policies of privatisation and capitalism soon transformed him into a loathsome figure for many.
The massive job losses that followed his structural adjustment programs soon transformed thriving communities into overnight ghost towns.
With a nice and handsome face, he launched himself as one of the most well spoken leaders to have ever walked through the palatial gates of State House. What he lacked in stature, he had it in substance.
His taste for designer and platform heeled shoes made him look like a man born of royalty. Clad in a beige suit complete with a matching turquoise silk tie and handkerchief transformed him into one of the best dressed leaders in Africa.
In 2011, however death robbed the country of this statesman. His life teaches us that one man's hard-work and perseverance can transport him from the harsh realities of life to the regal realms of wealth. SOURCE: MWEBANTU NEW MEDIA
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