Rumors of Zambian president's death denied

LUSAKA, Zambia, July 3 (UPI) -- Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa has survived an apparent stroke but may not resume official duties, The Times of South Africa reported.

Mwanawasa's ill health could hamper efforts to rein in Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, the report said. Mwanawasa, one of Mugabe's most outspoken critics among African leaders, fell ill just before the beginning of the African Union summit.

The Zambian government denied persistent rumors Thursday that Mwanasana had died in a Paris hospital, the Times reported.

South African President Thabo Mbeki, making an appearance at Pretoria City Hall, praised Mwanawasa and called for a moment of silence after being told he was dead. He issued a quick retraction wishing the Zambian president a speedy recovery.

Mwanawasa appears unlikely to resume his presidential duties and his role in negotiations over Zimbabwe, the Times said. The Movement for Democratic Change, the leading opposition group in Zimbabwe, is unhappy with Mbeki's role, believing he has encouraged Mugabe to be intransigent.