Government says it remains engaged in discussions with the family of former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu regarding funeral arrangements, with State House indicating that dialogue between the two sides continues as authorities seek a resolution.
Presidential spokesperson Clayson Hamasaka Kabesha stated that consultations between government representatives and members of the Lungu family are ongoing and are aimed at reaching an understanding that respects both the family’s wishes and state responsibilities connected to the funeral of a former head of state.
Kabesha said government has maintained communication with the family since the passing of the former president and that the objective remains to ensure the burial takes place in a dignified manner.
According to Kabesha, discussions are centred on reaching common ground regarding the organisation of funeral proceedings and related matters.
He said the State recognises the importance of the burial of a former head of state and is committed to working with the family to reach an outcome that reflects respect for the deceased while maintaining established procedures for state funerals.
Kabesha said dialogue remains the preferred approach for resolving outstanding issues surrounding the funeral arrangements.
He added that the government believes engagement with the family provides the most appropriate path to address concerns that have arisen during the process.
The burial of the former president has drawn national attention, with calls from various groups urging both government and the family to resolve differences so that the country can proceed with funeral arrangements.
Kabesha said government remains open to discussions and has continued to interact with representatives of the family as part of efforts to bring the matter to closure.
He noted that the passing of a former head of state carries significance beyond the immediate family, as it is also an event of national importance requiring coordination between the state and relatives.
Kabesha said the government remains committed to ensuring that the process is handled with respect and dignity.
The spokesperson stated that authorities are mindful of public interest in the matter and that the state’s approach has been guided by the need to maintain communication with the family while working toward an agreed position.
He said government has not closed the door on dialogue and will continue engaging the family as discussions progress.
Kabesha added that government hopes that continued consultations will eventually lead to a resolution that allows the burial of the former president to proceed.
He reiterated that the state remains committed to dialogue as the discussions continue.
If you are doing dialogue, that is a good thing Sir. The state cannot and should not dictate to the family about the funeral and burial of the former President in the clear absence of such constitutional authority. In any case, all over the world and for any funeral, regardless of the status of the deceased, the family is the absolute and unambigous authority on events surrounding the burial.
Well said Magenge, please tell them, because in Africa where there is a false belief that a President is a demi god, some people can not understand that you can have a state function or state funeral without the President being there. The reason KK used to say ignorance is a disease
Is he the correct person to handle this ?
I don’t understand this story. Here is a picture of AG Mulilo Kabesha but the story is referencing State House spokesperson Clayson Hamasaka. LT do you have editors?
Journalism isnt taken seriously nowadays.
LT are as disorganized as UPND. Anything goes
Ba Kabesha, dont include Spaka in your delegation. We know he is a senior UPND member but he is too archaic and tribal
Ba Kabesha, Plizz dont include Spaka in your delegation. We know he is a senior UPND member but he is too archaic and tribal