Member of Parliament for Balaka North Constituency Lucius Banda has expressed shock over the death of former Minister of State under the reign of Dr. Bakili Muluzi, Honorable Patrick Mbewe.

Mbewe, a dedicated member of the United Democratic Front (UDF) and a patron died on Saturday after a long illness.

Writing on his official facebook page Banda said Mbewe was an amazing father figure.

“Tears are still flowing. I can not believe you are gone. You were not only Honorable Patrick Mbewe to me but you were and will always be an amazing father figure.

“Today, all I hear are the kind words of those you have helped. You were first a businessman before you went into politics. A humble man who lived his life to the fullest, a hardworking man that ensured that those around him were taught to be the best of themselves,” wrote Banda.

He added: “Politics came into your life later in life. Until today, you lived and served the political world with no bad reputation behind. Thank you for being the prime example to all including me.

“You are already missed but you will not be forgotten. May you soul continue resting in Peace our brother, father and uncle.”

Mbewe will be laid to rest this coming Wednesday in Chiradzulu.

President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has since ordered that Mbewe’s funeral be accorded military honour due to his contribution to the development of the country.