UN General Assembly
2008

I wish to inform this Assembly that, in accordance with the Zambian Constitution, elections for the new President should be held within 90 days of the death or incapacitation of a sitting President. Thus, the Government has designated 30 October 2008 for the presidential by-election. In the spirit of transparency, accountability and good governance, the Zambian Government has invited international organizations, including the United Nations, to send election observers to the elections. At this juncture, let me join others who have spoken before me in congratulating you, Mr. President, on your assumption of the presidency of the General Assembly at its sixty-third session. Zambia has no doubt that you will steer this session to a successful conclusion. I wish to assure you of Zambia’s support. May I also take this opportunity to pay tribute to your predecessor, Mr. Srgjan Kerim of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, for ably presiding over the proceedings of the General Assembly at its sixty-second session. I wish to thank the Secretary-General for his tireless efforts in his dedicated service to humankind in