By Mary Makhiringa

Balaka, July 2, Mana: President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera is expected to lead Malawians in paying their last respects to legendary musician ‘Soldier’ Lucius Banda on Thursday who died Sunday in South Africa while receiving treatment.

According to the funeral programme that Malawi News Agency (Mana) has seen, officials from the Office of the President and Cabinet are scheduled to visit the late Banda’s residence to plan for the Presidential visit.

Meanwhile, the body of the fallen musician arrived in the country on Tuesday afternoon through Chileka International Airport in Blantyre.

On arrival, uncle to the deceased, Eliyasi Kamoto thanked government especially President Chakwera for what he described as love to their relative throughout the entire period that he has been in hospital.

“I have seen the Vice President Dr. Michael Usi amongst us, I have seen Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, please convey our heartfelt thanks to the State President, he has been there for our relations throughout the entire period, for this we are so thankful,” he said.

Upon arrival in Balaka, the body of late Lucius Banda will first be taken to St. Louis Montfort Catholic Parish where a mass will be said in his honour before proceeding to his official residence at Andiamo Campus where vigil will be held awaiting burial on Thursday.