By JOSEPH BANDA –
FINANCE Minister Alexander Chikwanda has described alderman Tom Mtine as a living legend who has kept a low profile despite his many achievements throughout his life.
Mr Chikwanda said this on Saturday when he officiated at Mr Mtine’s 90th birthday celebrations held at his residence in Ndola.
Mr Chikwanda said Mr Mtine was a man of many commendable accomplishments and indisputable honour making him an embodiment of all positive attributes.
“ What is so remarkable about Mr Mtine is that in the various important positions he has served whether as a civic leader, promoter, practical supporter and administrator of sport or captain of the industry, he has served with rare distinction and unfettered dedication,” he said.
He said Mr Mtine had shunned the limelight and had not sought accolades despite being held in high highest esteem beyond Zambia’s borders.
“The recognition of his services and whatever acclaims have never gone to his head and humility has been his beacon,” Mr Chikwanda said.
He said during the struggle for independence, Mr Mtine rendered valuable support to UNIP but that he stayed in the background and staked no claims for his vital contributions.
He said in a society where people placed a maximum premium on prominence, it was important for people to learn lessons from Mr Mtine’s style.
“Mr Mtine’s life has been shrouded in a true human fellowship, which he has distinctly symbolised and epitomised. It is a legacy we should all strive to achieve,” he said.
Paramount Chief Mpezeni advised politicians to make use of Mr Mtine as the country approached the August 11 general election.
Speaking through Chief Madzimawe, the traditional leader said to reach 90 years was a rare achievement and God had kept Mr Mtine for that long for a purpose.
He said Mr Mtine was a true Zambian by tribe and everyone should learn from him as people of various races attended his birthday celebrations.
Former Finance Bank chairperson Rajan Mahtani said Mr Mtine, who he had known when he was a child was a person who always stood for what was right.
Dr Mahtani said Mr Mtine was the first black mayor in Zambia and his sacrifice for Zambia had helped shape the country’s destiny.
Veteran lawyer, Julius Sakala said he remembered how Mr Mtine persuaded him to continue working for the council in Ndola until he became the first indigenous town clerk.
Mr Mtine said he was humbled by the people who had joined him to celebrate his birthday and that he could not ask for more except that God blesses everyone.
“I thank God for everything. Although I have done a lot for this country, only a few privileged people know because it is not my nature to announce it all,” he said.
Others that attended the celebrations were Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Margaret Mwanakatwe, Finance deputy Minister Christopher Mvunga, Chief Nzamane and Chieftainess Malembeka among others.