STOP THE ROT FORTHWITH!
By Chanoda Ngwira F
In Zambia, we still seem to be grappling with remnants of colonial rule and the authoritarian tendencies that followed in the post-independence era. This is evident in the way we treat state functions, particularly funerals for public figures.
There are clear guidelines that outline the protocol for state and official funerals, covering sitting and former Presidents, Vice Presidents, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Secretaries to the Cabinet, and other specified office bearers.
However, when announcements are made stating that “the President has accorded so-and-so a State Funeral,” it often comes across as though this is a matter of personal discretion or benevolence from the Head of State. This should not be the case.
These honors, such as state or official funerals, are not mere gestures of presidential favour; they are institutional privileges tied to the offices held and the service rendered to the nation. They are earned by virtue of public service, not bestowed as if they are optional gifts from the Executive.
To strengthen our democratic culture, it is important that we move away from this perception that everything hinges on presidential goodwill. Institutions must work based on clearly defined rules and consistent application of those rules. Respecting public office means respecting both the responsibilities and the privileges that come with it, even in death.
You have heard!
Whats your point here Mr author and what difference does it make? Why you Zambians are like this?Just because it came from HH you see a problem. We all know what you are saying and what you are up to…very evil people.Lets just mourn the big man
You’re an idyot Ngwira. You always bring confusion even where it’s uncalled for. Whether you like it or not, HH is the president and he is the one that had accorded Edgar Lungu a state funeral. It is the Govt in place at the moment that has made this possible. It’s that stupidity and nonsense that can bring chaos to the country. Every shit like Chanoda thinks he can be disrespectful to the Govt and the Head of State. No! We won’t allow that. This is a democracy and we should and will be enforcing the laws!!
Let’s have Zambia Army take command of their once upon a time Commander in Chief and Former President funeral only then shall we see orderliness and uninterrupted burial process.
Government should stand firm ground. Yes, ECL was an opposition leader and had political beef with his political rivals in government BUT in his death his body reverts to STATE PROPERTY and should be treated as such.
Lastly, this is the first time retired former President has died while active in politics.
A new experience to all; government, Zambians and his political party. The Party PF feels entitled following the fact that he was their active Party President. By being an opposition leader he received shots from his opponent in the UPND these are the shots that wouldn’t have been fired had he remained in complete private life and genuinely a Father of the Nation with no sides. Believe me, he would have seen more years beyond this year. I feel the conviction. Why? Because No political pressure that could have taken advantage of his failing health. He exposed himself to harsh political weather even when he knew he couldn’t BUT unless he had some faithful advisors NOT the political parasites type we are seeing pacing around his dead body.
Their biggest hope is to use this as revival of political sympathy to turn ashes into fire in 2026..it’s very clear you don’t need a lunar view telescope.
Sorry no matter how much we talked by gone is by gone nonetheless, it teaches us lessons to use in our next chapter.