Former President Dr. Joyce Banda has expressed shock over the death of Willie Samute, Deputy Chief Secretary to the Government.

Samute died on died on Wednesday midnight in the Republic of South Africa after a long illness.

In statement made available to FaceofMalawi, Banda said the country has lost a dedicated Civil Servant.

“Her Excellency Dr. Joyce Banda wishes to convey her deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the entire nation following the loss of this dedicated son of Malawi.

“The former President recalls that the late Willie Samute enjoyed tremendous respect from the international community and civil servants. In particular, the late Willie Samute enjoyed great respect from the Civil Service Union because of his negotiating skills and respect for civil servants at all levels,” reads in part the statement.

Samute was appointed Deputy Chief Secretary in 2012 by President Banda.

Meanwhile the remains of Samute will arrive in the country today through Kamuzu International Airport in the capital Lilongwe.