Makebi Zulu and the politics of premature ambitio

By Magret Mwanza

Zambia is witnessing a disturbing and deeply polarising political spectacle in which Makebi Zulu has launched a presidential political campaign at a moment that demands national restraint and solemn respect.

The haste with which he is positioning himself for the highest office in the land raises serious questions about judgment, patriotism, and political maturity.

A nation that is still grappling with the emotional weight of laying to rest its former Head of State, and with Makebi Zulu himself having been the poster child of the Edgar Lungu burial negotiator, expects dignity and sobriety from those who once served closely within that leadership circle.

Instead, what Zambians are seeing is an aggressive projection of ambition that many interpret as betrayal rather than courage.

African tradition, which continues to shape our moral compass and political culture, teaches that succession and inheritance of responsibility can only occur after the departed has been accorded proper burial and honour.

This is not merely a ritualistic expectation but a profound symbol of continuity, respect, and spiritual closure.

By launching a presidential political campaign before this sacred national process is completed, Makebi Zulu risks being viewed as undermining both tradition and collective national sentiment.

The presidency is not an emergency vacancy to be filled in haste. It is a responsibility that must be approached with humility, patience, and moral grounding.

There is nothing fearless or principled about political manoeuvres that disregard timing and public sensitivity.

Courage in leadership is demonstrated through restraint, empathy, and an ability to read the emotional pulse of the nation.

Zambia is a country that values loyalty and remembrance. When political actors appear to prioritise personal advancement over honouring the legacy of those they once served, it inevitably creates a perception of opportunism.

Citizens are justified in asking what the rush is. Why can ambition not wait for a more appropriate political season, even if that season is as far as 2031.

True statesmen understand that power gained without moral legitimacy is ultimately fragile.

The growing political noise surrounding Makebi Zulu’s ambitions risks inflaming tensions within an already fragile political environment.

Zambia’s democratic journey requires maturity from aspiring leaders, not theatrics that divide public opinion and erode trust.

Political careers should be built on a foundation of national service and ethical consistency rather than dramatic attempts to dominate headlines.

The perception that influence can be fast-tracked through aggressive positioning only reinforces the fears of citizens who worry that politics has become a contest of ego rather than ideas.

Zambians are yearning for leaders who respect both constitutional processes and cultural values.

They want individuals who understand that national unity must take precedence over individual ambition.

The burial of a former president is not just a ceremonial event. It is a defining moment of reflection for the country.

Those who aspire to lead must demonstrate that they can rise above personal calculations and stand with the nation in its moments of mourning and transition.

Anything less diminishes their claim to moral authority.

In the end, history will not judge leaders by how loudly they declared their ambitions but by how responsibly they conducted themselves when the nation needed sobriety.

If Makebi Zulu wishes to be taken seriously as a future presidential contender, he must recognise that timing is a critical test of leadership character.