President Hakainde Hichilema was among thousands who gathered on Monday to pay their last respects to Philip Kabimba, father of Economic Front Party president Wynter Kabimba.
The funeral, held in Shibuyunji District in Central Province, drew a cross-section of political and community leaders, reflecting the Senior citizen, Mr Kabimba’s broad impact and legacy.
In his address, President Hichilema paid tribute to Mr Kabimba as a courageous and principled man who supported the ideals of democracy even during politically difficult times.
The media reports that the Head of State also used the platform to call for national unity and active voter registration ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“This old man was a very courageous man, when it was difficult to support UPND, he stood firm, even when Wynter was a Minister in another government, his father remained committed to the values we shared; mutual respect, understanding, and independent thinking,” President Hichilema said.
The President described his relationship with Wynter Kabimba as both personal and political, recalling shared moments from their early political careers.
He praised Mr Kabimba’s maturity and openness to divergent political views, saying that such relationships were essential to strengthening Zambia’s democratic space.
“PJ was my friend, but above all, before we became political apprentices, we shared a bond of mutual respect. Even when we competed, it was never out of animosity. That is what democracy should be about, not division,” said President Hichilema.
The Head of State encouraged mourners and the nation at large to honour the life of Philip Kabimba by walking in his footsteps, upholding values of family, community development, and national service.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema emphasised the importance of voter registration, calling on eligible citizens to ensure they are properly documented.
“I received a report that some eligible voters are facing difficulties during registration,” said President Hichilema.
“Let every Zambian exercise their democratic right to choose their leaders. Not just for me, but for the good of the country,” he said.
He appealed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to ensure that the process is inclusive, transparent, and accessible, adding that the voter register must reflect the will of the people come election time.
Central Province Minister Mwabashinke Nkulukusa paid tribute to the late Philip Kabimba during a burial ceremony held in Shibuyunji district, describing him as an inspirational figure whose legacy continues to influence many in the community.
“He was such an old man that he inspired us at the time,” in reference to the moral and social guidance Mr Kabimba had provided over the years.
Mr Nkulukusa also acknowledged the close relationship between the late Mr Kabimba and his son Winter, saying,
The Minister urged the gathered mourners to reflect on the values and legacy Mr. Kabimba had left behind adding that the loss is both at personal and national level.
Mr Nkulukusa called on the family members and other citizens to honor the life of Mr Kabimba by embracing the principles he stood for.
He said late Mr Kabimba is remembered as a respected elder whose influence extended beyond his family to the broader community.
And Economic Front Party leader, Wynter Kabimba said his father was very courageous but loved people adding that he taught them good morals
And somebody says each time my father was sick, this somebody used to go and see him, There are many who used to go and see him ,of course, so why single out one person who is not even a god
Aini, ati uyu waso could come to see him each time he was sick, so the others who were coming when he was sick and were not thanked or mentioned were of less value? Why is this continent like this