WE BELONG TO ZAMBIA, NOT POLITICAL PARTIES- MWATA KAZEMBE
…But rejects mediocrity, selective persecution and injustice, even where matters before law enforcement officials are not on terra firma
Mwata Kazembe has reaffirmed the neutrality of traditional leadership, declaring that the Kazembe Lunda Royal Establishment belongs to all Zambians and not to any political party as the country prepares for the upcoming general elections.
Addressing thousands of people during the 2026 Umutomboko Traditional Ceremony in Mwansabombwe, the traditional leader called on political players and citizens alike to safeguard peace, unity and national cohesion.
“We do not belong to any political party; we belong to Zambia and to all our people,” Mwata Kazembe declared.
He urged leaders, institutions and citizens to reject violence, tribalism, hatred and misinformation, warning that political competition should never divide families, neighbours or communities.
“When elections are over, Zambia will remain our common home,” he said.
Speaking under the theme, “Strengthening Unity, Investing in Education, Connecting Local Enterprise to Wider Markets,” Mwata said unity remains the foundation of national development and called on Zambians to embrace tolerance and mutual respect during the election period.
Mwata also described education as the country’s greatest investment, urging government, traditional leaders, development partners and the private sector to work together to expand access to quality education, digital literacy, vocational training and entrepreneurship, especially in rural areas.
He further challenged stakeholders to unlock Luapula Province’s economic potential by supporting agriculture, fisheries, tourism, cultural industries and local enterprise.
Mwata noted that the Umutomboko Ceremony itself demonstrates how culture can stimulate economic growth through tourism, hospitality and creative industries, inviting investors to explore opportunities in Luapula Province.
He also appealed to government to investigate the disappearance of dredging equipment that once supported fishing activities on Lake Mweru and to restore the vandalised MV Kapale Barge, describing it as a strategic tourism and economic asset.
In remarks touching on governance and justice, Mwata Kazembe said the Kazembe Lunda Royal Establishment stands for excellence, innovation and fairness.
“We reject mediocrity, selective persecution and injustice, even where matters before law enforcement officials are not on terra firma,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by Vice President Dr. W.K. Mutale Nalumango, representing President Hakainde Hichilema, alongside traditional leaders from Zambia and neighbouring countries, diplomats, government officials, church leaders, corporate partners and thousands of members of the public.
Concluding his address, Mwata Kazembe challenged young people to preserve their cultural heritage while pursuing education, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Do not allow political differences, tribal divisions or temporary challenges to prevent you from building the Zambia you desire. Your future is greater than the challenges of today,” he said.