LUCIUS Banda, the acclaimed Malawian singer-songwriter, music producer, and politician, has died at the age of 53. He passed away on Sunday at a hospital in South Africa. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed by his family.
Affectionately known as ‘Soldier’ by his numerous admirers, Banda was serving as a special advisor to President Lazarus Chakwera on youth and arts at the time of his passing. Banda first gained prominence in the 1990s with his politically charged songs that boldly criticised the former dictator, Hastings Kamuzu Banda. He holds the distinction of being the first musician to openly challenge the country’s 30-year dictatorship.
Born in 1970, Lucius Banda earned widespread acclaim for his music that spoke out against oppression, social injustices, and inequalities, a legacy that earned him the moniker ‘Soldier.’ His music career began at the tender age of 13, and he had released 20 albums by the time of his death. Beyond his musical achievements, Banda was a key political figure, serving as the campaign director for the United Transformation Movement (UTM), founded by former Vice President Saulos Chilima, who tragically died in a plane crash on June 10 this year.
Tributes have been pouring in from across Malawi and beyond, with many hailing Banda as an icon who championed the rights of the underprivileged and marginalized. His passing is a significant loss to the nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage and advocacy through both music and political service.
