The Non-governmental Gender Organization Coordinating Council (NGOCC) says it is saddened by the untimely death of Chilubi PF member of parliament Rosaria Fundanga.

In statement, Thursday, NGOCC executive director Engwase Mwale said it was sad that the country had been robbed of a fearless woman.

“The Non-governmental Gender Organisations Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has learnt with a sense of deep sadness the untimely death of Chilubi Member of Parliament (MP) Ms. Rosaria Fundanga who died on Wednesday, 20th November 2019 after collapsing,” Mwale said.

“Zambia has once again been robbed of a fearless woman, who stood up to challenge the deeply entrenched patriarchy, rising to be elected as the people’s representative for Chilubi Constituency. Against all odds Ms. Fundanga, was amongst the few female Parliamentarians who were elected after the 2016 General elections. Fundanga will therefore remain a mentor to the many young women that women’s leadership is indeed possible despite the entrenched patriarchy.”

She urged political parties to reflect deeply on the need for gender equality in both Parliament and the councils as they continue mourn the former Chilubi MP.

“As the women’s movement we are therefore deeply saddened that the country has yet again lost a woman leader, just a few months after the death of the late Katuba MP, Patricia Mwashingwele. 2019 has been a painful year for the women’s movement! It is our hope that even us we mourn this gallant woman, the country and political parties in particular will reflect deeply on the need for gender equality in both Parliament and in the Councils.Our deepest condolences to the Fundanga family,” stated Mwale.