Envoy urges Lungu to retire
ZAMBIA’S High Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand has described as “reckless” former president Edgar Lungu’s remarks that President Hakainde Hichilema may be “ousted” from office before the 2026 general elections.
In a posting on Facebook, Dr Elias Munshya said Lungu’s statement had “rightfully shocked” the nation, and called on the former president to consider retiring from politics.
“Such statements, deemed reckless, warrant unequivocal condemnation from every Zambian,” said High Commissioner Munshya. “Our nation stands as a symbol of peace within the region and across Africa, celebrated for its history of peaceful transitions of power among four different ruling parties over the last 60 years.”
Dr Munshya said the voice of Zambia’s people had consistently shaped the country’s democracy, most notably when in 2021, when Lungu was democratically defeated at the ballot box by a margin of one million votes.
“This significant electoral loss seems to have led Mr. Lungu to a path of non-acceptance, manifesting in efforts to destabilize his peaceful successor,” High Commissioner Munshya said. “As we commemorate Zambia’s 60th Anniversary of Independence and honour the centenary of founding President Dr Kenneth Kaunda, let us reaffirm our commitment to unity and the perpetuation of peace.”
Dr Munshya urged Lungu to retire from active politics.
“His continued expressions of bitterness and inflammatory rhetoric are not conducive to the well-being of our beloved country,” stated High Commissioner Munshya. “Let us move forward together, upholding the principles that have allowed Zambia to thrive as a beacon of democracy and tranquillity in Africa.”-The Mole
I am surprised that Lungu, kampyongo and Lusambo have not faced the law for the violence they perpetuated when they were in office. Lungu’s current inner circle is equally heartless. Stocking flames for violence through their statements leading up to this. I thought Mundubile was a sober man. If he is, then he lacks a spine to stand up. Miles has the courage required of a leader though I have doubts about his maturity not as an adult but as a leader on the economic front. Better tthough than violent Lungu & his cohorts. The only remaining PF presidential candidate that people may count on is Chitalu Chilufya. Just my thoughts. Don’t insult me just put your counter sentiments across with civility. Sobriety in politics needs to start with those of us who take time to read and write. Then it can spread to those in the streets who rely on on emotions and political fodder from selfish politicians
It is not for you to force someone to retire. Why don’t you yourself retire from your position and allow others to serve in your position? If you are indeed a career diplomat who properly understands your job description, you should not be seen to be partisan and issuing political statements. Anyway, you can be excused since you are just a mere UPND cadre!