Following a controversial debacle on July 4th in which the current 
President of Zambia Michael Sata publically attacked 
[http://www.zambianwatchdog.com/2012/07/05/sata-brands-george-w-bush-ex-colonial
ist-who-is-in-zambia-to-pay-back ] former U.S. President George W. Bush, the 
former President of Zambia Rupiah Banda has sent a letter to Bush's offices 
offering an apology on behalf of the Zambian people.

    "It is deeply regrettable that such statements were made on the same day as 
the celebration of your Independence Day, marking the universally shared hope 
of self-determination and freedom that inspires oppressed people of the world," 
President Banda wrote in the letter to President Bush. "No matter what 
political views different parties may hold, the people of Zambia are peace 
loving, welcoming, and focused positively on the future, not the past. We are 
especially grateful for your generous contribution to women's healthcare in our 
country."

    During a ceremony held at State House, President Sata castigated President 
Bush in front of the audience as a "colonialist" who had "stolen Africa's 
resources" and had returned to pay it back.

    "And you have all drifted away; you have abandoned Africa after taking all 
our raw commodities, our raw materials and build your cities," President Sata 
said to President Bush at the press conference. "I mean, as far as you are 
concerned Africa doesn't exist. And when we have a former colonialist like you 
coming back to pay back what you took out of this country we are grateful."

    The letter of apology sent by former President Banda to former President 
Bush recognized the important work of the Pink Ribbon / Red Ribbon charity 
group.

    According to the George W. Bush Presidential Center website, the visit by 
the former American head of state included the opening of the new African 
Center of Excellence for Women's Cancer Control at University Teaching 
Hospital, the donation of a new electronic hub (e-Hub), and the announcement of 
aid from Airborne Lifeline, a nonprofit organization that will provide 
airfreight services for medical equipment and transport medical personnel and 
patients.

    For further information and the text of former President of Zambia Rupiah 
Banda's letter contact Kennedy Limwanya, Press Aide, on +260977827563 or email 
him at limwanyak@gmail.com or Richard Elsen +44-7-886-757-307
richard@byfieldconsultancy.com

    SOURCE: Office of the Former Zambian President Rupiah Banda