Dr John Phiri, JCTR’s Father Muyebe die 

By NATION REPORTER 

FORMER cabinet Minister Dr John Phiri who served between 2011 and 2016 has died aged 75 after a short illness, government has announced.

Patrick Kangwa, the Secretary to the Cabinet said Dr Phiri passed away at Maina Soko Military Hospital where he was admitted after falling sick.

Mr Kangwa said Cabinet Office was working in collaboration with the family of the late Dr Phiri on the funeral arrangements and the nation would be informed.

Meanwhile Father Alexander Muyebe Director of the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) died aged 56, following a short illness.

Dr Boyd Nyirenda the JCTR deputy director and who is also a priest said in a statement that Fr Muyebe, a naïve of Malawi was a dedicated member of the Southern Africa Province of the Society of Jesus and faithfully served as a priest for 21 years.

“Fr Muyebe served as JCTR Executive Director over the past four years, becoming a beacon of hope, advocating for the rights of the marginalized and tirelessly working for social justice across Zambia,” Dr Nyirenda said.

He said Fr Muyebe’s leadership was marked by a profound commitment to faith, justice, and intellectual engagement with critical societal issues, strengthening JCTR’s impact in policy advocacy and public engagement.

“Fr Muyebe left behind a powerful legacy of service, marked by an enduring commitment to justice and a compassionate heart,” Dr Nyirenda sai