FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER HAIMBE RESPONDS TO FAMILY’S PRIVATE FUNERAL REQUEST: “THE LATE PRESIDENT BELONGED TO ALL ZAMBIANS”

FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER HAIMBE RESPONDS TO FAMILY’S PRIVATE FUNERAL REQUEST: “THE LATE PRESIDENT BELONGED TO ALL ZAMBIANS”

By Dennis Sikazwe Jr

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe has weighed in on the decision by the family of the late former President to hold a private funeral, following a reported failure to reach consensus with the government. Minister Haimbe emphasized that while the family’s wishes are important, the late leader served as a national figure who belonged to all Zambians.

Speaking to the media, Minister Haimbe said the passing of a former Head of State is not a matter limited to family circles alone but a moment of national reflection and unity.

“You might put forward his wishes and requests, but I think this matter is for all of us as a people – as Zambians – because the late former president represented all of us,” said Haimbe.

“The person representing us now, in life, is the current President. But we must not forget that former presidents occupy a special place in our history. Their passing is not only personal to their family, but deeply significant to the nation.”

Minister Haimbe acknowledged that the bereaved family is entitled to its own views and preferences, including those regarding funeral arrangements. However, he called for a balanced approach that honors the private wishes of the family while upholding the dignity of national mourning.

“We must respect and appreciate the family’s position. At the same time, we as Zambians are also stakeholders. The former president was a leader for all of us,” he said.

The Minister concluded by urging the nation to remain united and to work together toward a dignified and befitting send-off for the late statesman.

> “I’m sure all of us would want to see a funeral that reflects the respect and honour due to a former president. That is what we must work toward achieving together.”

The government has yet to announce the final funeral program. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing in hopes of reconciling the family’s preferences with national expectations.

CIC PRESS TEAM