HICHILEMA MISSES ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT

By Counsel Arnold Chisaya

I have over 8 years of experience in crisis communication, and here is what I will tell you: In a crisis, the time you take to walk to a bus stop to speak with protesting old men is more valuable than the first word you will utter when you get there!

What do I mean? Presence is gold in a crisis, so seeing the President choose to record his speech is disappointing.

It shows that he does not consider the current situation a matter of national importance.

Instead of walking into the ZNBC Today studio and speak on live TV from there, he decided to record his speech from an empty room at the so-called community house!

That is a shame, especially that he had all the time to drive to Choma, using government resources, to sell his skinny bulls a few days ago!

Today, President HH was let down by his team. Or did they?
So the reason his address wasn’t held at 19:00 as they had announced is that the editors at ZNBC were still cutting the speech. Wow!

He had an opportunity to show leadership, but he just showed the lack of it.

Another missed opportunity!

Political Leadership and National Mourning, Understanding President Hakainde Hichilema’s Role

By : Tobbius Chilembo Hamunkoyo 12/06/2025

There’s an English proverb that says, “Give someone enough rope, and they will hang themselves.” In politics, this often means that the way leaders act whether wisely or carelessly, can have lasting consequences for their legacy.

Some observers believe that President Hakainde Hichilema is experiencing this principle in how he has managed the mourning period following the death of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

As the nation mourns this great loss, one of the prominent figures assisting the Lungu family is Senior Counsel Makebi Zulu, who is also the family spokes Person. It appears he is playing a key role in guiding the family through this emotional time. Makebi Zulu, who studied Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as part of his LLB degree, should know that such a delicate matter requires maturity, caution, and wisdom.

Any public claims, such as the idea that President Lungu did not want President Hichilema near his funeral—should be backed by clear evidence. If such a statement was truly made, it should have been handled privately, not used in a way that paints the late President Lungu in a negative light for political gain.

Ironically, this same group once condemned Thabo Kawana for publicly revealing that ECL was undergoing chemotherapy in South Africa. At the time, they insisted the former president was only there for regular checkups. It is moments like these that call for wise counsel.

Makebi Zulu appears to be acting emotionally, but this situation requires calm and careful speech, knowing what to say and what to keep private.

His role is not just legal, it is deeply connected to the Lungu family’s relationship with the state and with the public. He must remember that there is life after the funeral. How he handles this moment reflects not only on the family but also on Zambia’s image in the eyes of the world.

While his legal support is important, wisdom must guide his words and actions, and the advice he receives from others must also be thoughtful and responsible.

The way this mourning period is handled will shape how both the Lungu family and the nation’s leadership are remembered.

It is important for the Lungu family—and indeed for all Zambians, to recognize that President Hakainde Hichilema, as the current Head of State, is also the chief mourner of the nation.

This role goes beyond personal relationships or past political disagreements. Regardless of their past differences, President Hichilema has a national duty to lead the country in mourning with unity, respect, and dignity.

History has shown that the death of a former president can be a powerful moment of national unity. Countries around the world have used such moments to set aside political divides and come together to honor a shared legacy.

Zambia has experienced this before. These moments remind us that true leadership rises above personal feelings and aims to preserve peace, dignity, and national unity. That is why Makebi Zulu and the Lungu family must approach this situation with care and responsibility.

This is a time for wise decisions. Blame should not be directed at the state. Issues like the withdrawal of benefits were voluntary decisions made by former President Lungu himself, as provided for under the law. It has nothing to do with President Hichilema or the UPND.

How President Hichilema guides the nation through this period of mourning will influence how history remembers him. Similarly, how the Lungu family conducts itself will reflect their respect for the presidency, for President Hichilema, and, most importantly, for Zambia.

As the country reflects on this moment of transition, the need for national unity cannot be overstated.

History teaches us that in times of grief, a nation grows stronger when its people come together in purpose and peace.

We now await the official address from His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema.

EDITOR’S CHOICE: WHERE DID WE GO WRONG?

By Gregory Mofu

Growing up in the 1990s, I witnessed Zambia stand tall as a beacon of peace—not just in the region, but across the African continent. Under the leadership of our then-president, Frederick Chiluba, Zambia played a central role in promoting dialogue, mediating conflicts, and hosting peace negotiations that shaped the course of nations.

Zambia was not just known as a peaceful country; it was the headquarters of peace in southern Africa. We watched with pride as our capital, Lusaka, hosted landmark agreements like the Lusaka Protocol, which brought together Angolan President Eduardo dos Santos and UNITA rebel leader Jonas Savimbi in a bid to end the protracted civil war in Angola. We also witnessed Congo’s newly installed president, Dr. Laurent-Désiré Kabila, sign peace accords with over 18 rebel groups—right here in Lusaka. These moments were not mere political events; they were affirmations of Zambia’s identity as a stabilizing force and an honest broker in times of crisis.

But something has changed.

Today, the story feels different. The confusion and political friction surrounding the funeral of our sixth Republican President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, have left many wondering: Where did we go wrong?

I believe I have an answer—politics.

Politics have become divisive, toxic, and misunderstood. Somewhere along the way, we lost sight of the true spirit of democracy. Instead of embracing diversity of thought and opposition as pillars of a healthy system, we have allowed suspicion, bitterness, and mistrust to define our political interactions. Democracy was never meant to create enemies; it was meant to create space for conversation, accountability, and growth.

That’s why I was deeply encouraged by President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent address to the nation. His reminder that politics should not turn us into enemies is a necessary and timely message. It is a step in the right direction—and hopefully, a turning point.

When this moment of political tension and misunderstanding eventually passes—and it must—we must not return to business as usual. Instead, I strongly believe that President Hichilema should initiate a Commission on Peace, Reconciliation, and National Unity. Such a platform could allow Zambia to revisit its founding values, heal political wounds, foster mutual respect among stakeholders, and restore our nation’s rightful place as a beacon of peace in Africa.

We have done it before. We can do it again.

HH CALLS FOR UNITY

By Rosemary Shindola

Lusaka-12 June 2025

President Hakainde Hichilema has addressed the nation in a solemn and heartfelt message following the passing of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

In his national address, the Head of State expressed deep condolences to the bereaved Lungu family, the Patriotic Front (PF) party, and the Zambian people at large.

In a spirit of national solidarity, the Republican President called on Zambians to support the Lungu family and the PF party with compassion and empathy, emphasizing the importance of rising above political divisions.

“My thoughts and prayers remain with the bereaved family and the nation at large during this difficult time,” President Hichilema stated, urging all citizens to embrace peace, love, and unity.

“Political differences do not make us enemies. They reflect our vibrant and dynamic democracy,” he added.

The Head of State appealed to all political parties, including the United Party for National Development (UPND), to rise to the occasion with dignity and mutual respect.

He cautioned against any attempts to politicize the moment or fuel divisions for partisan gain.

“Let compassion guide our actions. Let us not be drawn into provocation or disorder. This is a time to show our shared humanity.”

Highlighting Zambia’s identity as a Christian nation, President Hichilema stressed that lawlessness and disorder have no place in society. He reaffirmed that the country is governed by the rule of law, and any violations would be addressed without fear or favor.

“We are a nation of laws. The law will prevail and be applied fairly to all.”

Calling on the nation to turn to prayer and faith, he encouraged Zambians to seek divine wisdom and guidance in this moment of grief.

“Let love lead us and unity bind us. We must now come together in the spirit of peace and reconciliation.”

President Hichilema concluded his address by reaffirming his commitment to serve all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or background.

“As President, it is my duty to serve every Zambian. This is the time to put aside our differences and work together as one nation.”

The President’s message has been widely interpreted as a call for national healing and cohesion, as the country prepares to bid farewell to one of its former leaders.

CIC PRESS TEAM

Mr Antonio Mwanza  wrote
WHO HAS THE RIGHT TO DECIDE WHERE AND HOW PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU SHOULD BE BURIED…IS IT GOVERNMENT OR HIS FAMILY?

In Zambia, there is NO law that explicitly mandates a state funeral or prescribes a burial process for former Presidents. However, state practice and certain government regulations have guided how former Heads of State are treated upon death.

Here’s a breakdown:

⸻

✅ 1. State Practice and Precedent
• Zambia has traditionally accorded state funerals to all deceased Presidents, both sitting and former.

• Former Presidents Levy Mwanawasa, Frederick Chiluba, Michael Sata, Rupiah Banda and Kenneth Kaunda were all given state funerals.

• These funerals involved:
• Lying in state
• National mourning (public holidays, flags at half-mast)
• Military honors
• Burial at Presidential Burial Site (Embassy Park) in Lusaka.

⸻

✅ 2. Government Protocols and Decisions
• Though not enshrined in a single statutory law, the Office of the President (Cabinet Office) has protocols for national mourning and burial of sitting or former Presidents.

• These are administrative and policy-based decisions rather than laws passed by Parliament.

• The Presidential Burial Site Act, 2008 (Cap 264 of the Laws of Zambia) governs the Embassy Park burial site but does not mandate burial there—it authorizes the government to bury presidents there if the state so decides.

⸻

✅ 3. Presidential Burial Site Act, 2008 (Cap 264)
• Section 3: The Minister may designate land as a Presidential burial site.
• Section 4: The President (or a person acting on their behalf) may approve burial of a deceased President at the site.
• No clause in the Act compels burial at this site or a state funeral.

• Consent of family is typically sought but not legally binding—this was at the center of the Kaunda family dispute in 2021.

⸻

✅ 4. Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act, 2016
• The Constitution recognizes former Presidents and provides retirement benefits (Article 112), but it does not address burial or funerals.

MY PERSONAL THOUGHTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The State must continue to seek a common ground with the bereaved family and in the interest of national unity and posterity of our country resolve this impasse amicably.

I am of the considered view that the State must engage neutral arbiters such as the Church and Traditional Leaders to help resolve this matter.

In conclusion, I am calling upon all parties involved to seek wisdom, understanding, tolerance and respect for one another in order to maintain peace and unity.

May we continue to mourn our beloved late President in honour and peace.

Antonio Mourinho Mwanza

12 June 2025

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

UNSEEN WORKS OF PRESIDENT LUNGU

By Likando Kalaluka, SC

First and foremost, allow me to convey my heartfelt condolences to the widow, Madam Esther Lungu, to President Lungu’s children, and indeed to all Zambians (everyone included), as we mourn the passing of our former President—a statesman, a servant leader, and a humble soul.   

My earliest memories of Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu—whom I respectfully addressed as such at the time—are from my days at the University of Zambia and later at ZIALE, when I would hear his name mentioned occasionally. However, my first real interaction with him was in or around 2001, shortly after I was admitted to the Bar. Around the same time, I had also been elected as a Council Member of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ). The policy then (and likely still now) required each Council Member to convene or chair one of the sub-committees. I chose to lead the Legal Aid Committee.

Mr. Lungu was by far the most committed member of that committee. He attended every meeting—without fail—and joined us for outreach programs in communities like Matero and John Laing, where we offered pro bono legal services. Despite being more than two decades my senior in both age and legal experience, Mr. Lungu would always take the time—before our meetings—to advise me privately on what to say and how to proceed. Then, he would take a back seat and let me lead. That humility left a lasting impression on me. I was a young, inexperienced lawyer, yet he served under my leadership with such grace and respect. Through that quiet mentorship, I learned one of the most important virtues of leadership—humility. For that, I remain eternally grateful.

Thereafter I took a break from LAZ Council, and I lost contact with him. In or around 2013, we met at the Radisson Blu hotel in Lusaka. By that time, he was serving as Minister of Home Affairs. With his signature smile, he handed me his business card and said ‘Ba lawyer, you no longer have an excuse for not reaching out or contacting me’. While many become incommunicado after ascending to higher offices, Honourable Lungu made it a point to remain accessible. Indeed, he never disappointed. Whenever I called him, as he answered every call and took time to listen to whatever I had to say. He took keen interest in what was happening in my life and in my law practice. He gave counsel with warmth and humour. Remarkably, this openness did not change even when he became President of the Republic. He continued to consult widely, listening to technocrats and experts from various government and quasi-government institutions. It was like he was oblivious to the authority and power reposed in the office he held—choosing instead to lead with humility and wisdom, ensuring that every decision was well-informed and people-focused.

When he appointed me Attorney General at the age of 37—possibly the youngest AG in our history—I was overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility. But President Lungu reassured me: “Do your best. I know you’ll make it.” Those simple words steadied me through my tenure as AG. Though I am constrained by my oath under the Official Oaths Act and cannot share many details, I can confidently say that I enjoyed an excellent working relationship with him—marked by mutual respect, trust, and integrity.

Among President Lungu’s many accomplishments, the 2016 Constitutional Amendments stand out prominently. Up until 2016, Zambians had long aspired for key constitutional reforms – among them;

i. 50% + 1 threshold for election of Republican President;
ii. Presidential Running Mate;
iii. Constitutional Court, and;
iv. An enhanced and modernised Bill of Rights.

These aspirations were well-documented in the Constitutional Review Commission Reports and other Technical Committee reports, but somehow the successive governments always came up with a different ‘colored’ paper and would not implement them. President Lungu stood tall and broke that cycle. He listened to the people’s voice and led the process that saw these long-awaited amendments relating to the 50% + 1 threshold for election of the Republican President, Presidential Running Mate and also the establishment of the Constitutional Court.

Constitutional law experts all agree that these were no ordinary accomplishments.

In a bold move, he also championed the 2016 referendum to amend the archaic Bill of Rights. His goal was clear, to enhance human rights protection for all Zambians and also, to expand this protection by expressly entrenching human rights protection for persons with disabilities and other marginalized people in our society. However, politics chipped in and, while others questioned the holding of the referendum at the same time as the 2016 general elections, President Lungu remained focused and had his sight on the overall objective of improving the human rights landscape in Zambia. Unfortunately, and sadly so, the referendum failed to meet the Article 79 threshold and President Lungu’s dream of enhancing and improving the human rights landscape in Zambia, did not materialise. His effort however, marked a profound moment in Zambia’s human rights journey. Many human rights defenders view that missed opportunity as a national loss—but never for want of resolve on the part of President Lungu.

A lot of Zambians will remember President Lungu as the President who tried his best. 

Zambians will remember President Lungu as a leader who gave his all. His tenure witnessed remarkable infrastructure development across the country and steadfast leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic—a time that tested governments worldwide. Amid severe disruptions, a battered economy, and one of the worst droughts in our history which resulted in near crop failure, President Lungu made tough decisions with grace. Zambia emerged with fewer losses than many countries, a testament to his calm and courageous leadership.

Despite these and numerous other achievements, it is possible that some among us, may not appreciate the enormity of President Lungu’s leadership and accomplishments. On his part, President Lungu was undeterred by the apparent lack of appreciation from some quarters. On 22nd April 2018, in his celebrated and elegant handwriting, he penned these profound words:

“When you work for God, don’t worry whether your work is being seen or heard, as long as the Lord Himself sees. Some people are blind, others are deaf. But the Lord in his own time makes the ‘blind’ see your work, the ‘deaf’ hear of your works!’

He wrote these words while he was still President but it’s like he wrote them for us today, and for the future. They are a call to reflection—a reminder to see, to hear, and to honour the legacy of a man who served with humility, dignity, and unwavering dedication to the people of Zambia. I pray that God opens our eyes to see President Lungu’s works.

MAY THE SOUL OF HIS EXCELLENCY, DR. EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU REST IN ETERNAL PEACE

Lunte MP Mutotwe Kafwaya Pays Emotional Tribute to Late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu

Lusaka, Zambia – June 12, 2025

Lunte Member of Parliament Mutotwe Kafwaya today paid his final respects to former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, visiting the Patriotic Front Secretariat in Lusaka to sign the official book of condolences.

In a deeply personal and emotional message, Kafwaya wrote:

“President Lungu,
You are my hero.
You gave me political life.
You believed in me.
You changed our country.
You changed our district.

You gave us a new name.
You will forever be in our hearts.
We reman your children.
We shall aways be guided by your enduring mentorship.”

Speaking to journalists after signing the book, Kafwaya described President Lungu as a father figure and mentor whose legacy would never fade.

“President Lungu was not just a national leader he was a personal inspiration. He raised many of us. He believed in people like me before the world even knew our names,” Kafwaya said.

The atmosphere at the PF Secretariat was sombre, as mourners from all walks of life came to honour the late president, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, is remembered for his calm leadership, humility, and commitment to peace and national unity.

“He gave us identity. He gave Lunte a voice. His mentorship lives in everything we do,” Kafwaya added.

President Lungu’s passing has left a deep wound in the hearts of many, but his spirit, Kafwaya said, will continue to guide those who remain.

“His dream lives on in us,” he concluded. “We will carry the torch.”

ECL’s Family Demands the Late Former President’s Body Lie in State at His Residence – Emmanuel Mwamba

The family of the late former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has demanded that his body lie in state at his residence, that church services be held in Ndola, Petauke, and Lusaka, and that they be consulted on the list of speakers a set of conditions that has reportedly led to a suspension of funeral and repatriation talks with the government.

This was revealed by Patriotic Front (PF) Information and Publicity Chairperson Emmanuel Mwamba in a Facebook post.

He stated that following several meetings between the family and government delegations initially led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe and later by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa but that no agreement was reached.

According to Mr. Mwamba, the family further insists that Mr. Lungu, who travelled as a private citizen, should be returned as such, with the state only taking charge of the body upon arrival at either Kenneth Kaunda International Airport or Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, depending on what is agreed.

He disclosed that tensions rose after the family objected to the presence of some government officials during the meetings, which further contributed to the impasse.

Mr. Mwamba reports that the government, on its part, has maintained that the body must be repatriated to Lusaka immediately and that the state should assume full responsibility from the undertaker in South Africa through to Zambia.

He added that while officials indicated the family’s requests would be taken into account, they would not be automatically accepted.

As of now, neither the government nor the family has issued an official statement confirming or denying these developments.

Unraveling the Falsehoods, How Senior Counsel Isaac Simbeye Stood Against Misinformation

By ; Tobbius Chilembo Hamunkoyo 12/06/25

In the wake of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s passing, the nation found itself in a solemn period of mourning. Emotions ran deep, and citizens sought unity in remembering a leader who had left an undeniable imprint on Zambia’s political landscape.

However, even amid grief, misinformation lurked in the shadows, threatening to distort the truth and manipulate public sentiment.

Among the voices attempting to stir confusion were Patriotic Front (PF) figures Nakachinda, Given Lubinda, and Prof. Nkandu Luo etc. Their claims painted a picture of deliberate obstruction, alleging that the Zambian government had refused to release passports for Dalisto Lungu and Senior Lawyer Counsel Chiyeso Lungu, effectively barring them from attending their late father’s funeral service in South Africa.

The narrative was carefully woven, designed to provoke outrage and deepen divisions.

Yet, in times of uncertainty, truth has its guardians. One of them is Senior Counsel Isaac Simbeye. Known for his unwavering professionalism and astute legal analysis, Simbeye stepped forward, not as a partisan voice, but as an advocate for facts.

With precision, he dismantled the allegations, exposing them for what they were: baseless propaganda aimed at discrediting the government. 

His response was not one of reactionary hostility but of composed clarity.

Through meticulous reasoning, Simbeye refuted the claims, ensuring that Zambians understood the reality of the situation.

His professionalism set him apart from the political theatrics that sought to sway public perception through misinformation. Instead of engaging in speculative debates, he has provided well-founded analysis, allowing truth to rise above manufactured deception. 

For concerned citizens, his intervention is timely. At a moment when emotions threatened to cloud judgment, his integrity served as an anchor.

In the face of relentless attempts to manipulate the narrative, Simbeye reminded Zambia that facts remain stronger than falsehoods. 

As the nation continues to reflect on Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s legacy, it must also recognize the importance of voices like Senior Counsel Isaac Simbeye.

His commitment to professionalism in the midst of political distortion is a testament to the power of truth and integrity. 

Mindset Must Change

HAKAINDE HICHILEMA HICHILEMA: A SYMBOL OF RESTRAINT, WISDOM, AND TRUE LEADERSHIP

By  Wagon Media Team | Western Province

Throughout history, great leaders have often been tested by the harshest of critics and the most turbulent of circumstances. Zambia’s Republican President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, is no exception. From the time he entered active politics, he has been mocked, insulted, falsely accused, arrested, and labeled with all manner of names—both when he was in the opposition and even now as Head of State.

Yet, what stands out remarkably is not the noise around him, but the dignified silence and wisdom with which he responds.

President Hichilema has chosen a path not many would take—one of peace over vengeance, discipline over impulse, and humor over bitterness. Despite the power vested in him as Commander-in-Chief, he has never used state machinery to silence his critics. He continues to show a deep respect for democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law.

He could have easily directed the police or defense forces to clamp down on voices that spread falsehoods or stir public unrest. But instead, he remains sober, focused, and anchored in principles. This is the caliber of leadership Zambia needs—leadership that is mature, law-abiding, and people-centered.

In the face of provocation, President Hichilema continues to call for unity, tolerance, and dialogue. He places the country’s peace above personal emotions. This level of restraint is not weakness—it is the mark of a visionary. A leader who understands that power must serve the people, not intimidate them.

As Zambians, we must reflect on this rare and exemplary character. Hichilema’s leadership is not just political—it is a lesson in emotional intelligence, self-control, and true patriotism.

Indeed, President Hakainde Hichilema is not just a leader of today—he is the leader Zambia has been waiting for.

WAGON MEDIA TEAM

By CIC Editors.

CIC EDITORIAL ANALYSIS.

A LESSON TO OTHER FAMILIES TO FIRST UNDERSTAND GOVERNANCE MATTERS BEFORE ALLOWING THEIR SONS TO BE PRESIDENTS ELSE THEY WILL EMBARRASS THE COUNTRY ON THE WORLD STAGE LIKE THE LUNGU FAMILY AND THEIR VULTURE POLITICAL ALLIES.

No lie and truth be told the Lungu family have embarrassed the nation of Zambia and Africa at large they have also embarrassed themselves with their ego. Whatever happens going forward lessons must be learnt to the remaining families of aspiring candidates to please learn and study governance matters before aspiring to hold the highest office of the land. The argument of “Lungu was treated badly” lacks sensible merits in this social media age without first explaining what exactly did he do to deserve such because records are there.

While the nation is trying so hard to restrain itself from descending into the family squabbles of altercations, the Lungu family through their representative Mr Makebi Zulu have continued to hold the nation at ransom with political games and conditions with excuses that don’t make sense. To begin with ECL was a ruthless president the whole nation is aware he was brutal he did not even pretend or hide it not only during his presidency but even post presidency office he harbored extreme hatred towards his friends it’s all known and documented.

Who has forgotten how ECL treated HH how many times did HH get arrested, his house damaged and vandalized, thrown in prison and so on, how many UPND members suffered at the hand of PF cadres in markets, at works, in stations and so on. Lungu presided over a reckless financial state defaulting on international debt obligations. Lungu plunged the country into a financial crisis with no clue how to get back.

Governance wise it was a mess. Overpriced projects with kickbacks to his cronies, inflated figures on simple projects in order to benefit his cartel. Zesco was almost confiscated due to enormous debts it was left it. Simply put Edgar Lungu was a failed project governance wise. We are coming out like this because the Lungu family and their allies perhaps they have forgotten what their member or client to the country such that he deserved his immunity stripped and thrown to jail yet HH did not intend to do that.

Talk of his family members amassing unexplained wealth at the expense of the drowning economy. His son recieved over 70 SUV vehicles as birthday day present. A controversial journalists of his found with millions of dollars. His daughter Chiyeso and indeed Tasila are all facing corruption cases including their step mother Mrs Esther Lungu. Should we include those in jail? Well ask what former Pambashe and Kawambwa MP did before you talk of justice towards them what they did are capital offenses and Lungu watched them quietly law was not done with them.

Amidst all the evidence and grounds of national justice that both the UPND and the nation suffered at the hand of PF with Lungu as it’s president where Zambia was at the brink of collapse due to lawlessness HH chose to offer peace and harmony and left his immunity intact.

Lungu himself announced he is retiring from politics, government moved in to do what the constitution say about the former presidents but political vultures who thrived on his poor health forced him to come back to politics what exactly do the law say about the former president coming back to politics? How are they treated? Who forced Lungu to come back to politics? His family are still facing court cases due to the fact that they need to explain where they got such wealth that has no business background.

Chiluba’s post presidency life was marred with court cases and appearances with his immunity stripped off, Rupiah Banda same thing. Yet someone who mistreated and destroyed the country died with his immunity intact and whatever came on him where his own decisions in the make. Even on his health the same PF kept refusing that he is not sick records are there. How was government going to treat a person who destroyed the country in debts and dragged the nation into violence lawlessness saying he is coming back and he is not sick you think they are foolish?

The LUNGU family and their allies must fool other people because in Zambia no one was born yesterday to fall into their narrative at all. And if they continue with this trajectory it will end badly for them because the nation will remove even the last respect they are supposed to get in order to mourn the former republican president. All this showdown with the government has one end game and motives it’s purely to gain political mileage which the nation unfortunately is not buying.

People are now fed up and are getting irritated with each and every passing day “Lungu was mistreated, Lungu was denied medicals etc” let them be reasonable and come to their senses because their strategy is not only boring but it’s not making sense but shows lack of respect to the nation. Other families who’s son’s and daughters are aspiring as presidents must draw lessons from these moments and learn governance etiquette before embarrassing themselves like the Lungu family.

The interest of government is the fact that Lungu was the head of state whatever Makebi Zulu, Tasila Lungu, Chiyeso or Daliso Lungu rants won’t hold any water Lungu will be buried like all other presidents that have ever ruled Zambia their opinions don’t count.

Government is even trying very hard to restrain itself because it has all the means of getting this thing done as quickly as possible and move on. They are trying to be respectful and reasonable to engage the family not as a sign of desperation or anything but to show the world how sensible leadership ought to be. If it’s HH who died as a former president after mistreating Lungu in opposition God knows what would be happening today.

CIC PRESS TEAM