IN PICTURES – Dr Fred M’membe remembers Dr. Guy Lindsay Scott, describes him as a loyal and transformational political figure.
Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe has paid tribute to former Vice President Dr. Guy Lindsay Scott, describing him as a complex yet remarkable leader whose political journey was defined by loyalty, humility and dedication.
In a message following Dr. Scott’s death, Dr. M’membe admitted that, despite considering himself “a master of words,” he had struggled to write a tribute because Dr. Scott was “a very complicated person” who embodied many different qualities.
Dr. M’membe recalled first meeting Dr. Scott in August 1990 at the home of the late Dr. Gilbert Mudenda, whom he described as both his friend and Dr. Scott’s intellectual associate. He said that at the time, Dr. Scott was still deeply immersed in intellectual life and had not yet become an active political figure.
He said he later witnessed Dr. Scott transform into what he described as “a very practical, down-to-earth and very committed politician.”
Reflecting on Dr. Scott’s political career, Dr. M’membe said the former Vice President reached his political peak after joining forces with late President Michael Sata. He noted that Dr. Scott admired Mr. Sata’s political skills and became one of his most loyal allies.
According to Dr. M’membe, the relationship between the two leaders was mutually beneficial, with Mr. Sata shaping Dr. Scott politically while Dr. Scott strengthened Mr. Sata’s credibility and political appeal. He added that together they delivered victory for the Patriotic Front in the 2011 general elections.
Dr. M’membe said Dr. Scott’s unwavering loyalty to Mr. Sata remains one of the greatest lessons for today’s politicians, arguing that loyalty is a rare virtue in modern politics where some leaders easily shift allegiances.
He further extended his condolences to Dr. Scott’s widow, Charlotte Scott, whom he described as “a very intelligent and lovely human being,” as well as to the late statesman’s children, relatives and friends.