13 MMD Members Seek Zambian Presidential Nomination

An official with Zambia's ruling party says 13 members have applied to run in the upcoming election to replace the late President Levy Mwanawasa.

Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) national secretary Katele Kalumba says the list will be turned over to a party committee to make a selection for the ballot.

Without saying who has applied, Kalumba says he is disappointed no women in the party sought nomination.

The list reportedly includes acting president Rupiah Banda and Finance Minister Ng'andu Magande.

Mr. Mwanawasa died August 19th in a Paris hospital where he was being treated for a stroke he suffered in June.

His body has been taken to provincial cities prior to burial September third -- which would have been his 60th birthday.

Under the constitution, Mr. Banda is expected to continue as acting president until an election is called within 90 days of Mr. Mwanawasa's death.

Some information for this report provided by Reuters.