State Funeral Law Needs Public Input, Says Chisanga

State Funeral Law Needs Public Input, Says Chisanga

Lukashya Patriotic Front (PF) Member of Parliament George Chisanga has called on the government to pause and widen public consultation before advancing the proposed State Funeral Bill, cautioning against the hasty enactment of legislation that directly touches national identity, cultural sensitivities and democratic norms. Speaking in Parliament this week, Chisanga argued that laws governing how Zambia honours its highest officeholders must be shaped by inclusive dialogue, not rushed through the House in a manner that leaves citizens uninformed and lawmakers unheard.

His remarks followed Wednesday’s adoption of a motion aimed at codifying protocols for state funerals, a move Chisanga described as procedurally flawed and substantively premature. The MP contended that the Speaker’s handling of the motion left little room for robust debate, cutting short what should have been a thorough parliamentary exchange. He said a number of colleagues, including Jack Mwiimbu, were prepared to speak but were denied the floor, creating an impression that a matter of national significance was being pushed through without adequate scrutiny.

Chisanga emphasized that legislation of this nature, particularly one that could dictate mourning periods, succession protocols and ceremonial rites for former and sitting presidents, requires engagement beyond internal executive discussions. He advocated for involvement of the Law Development Commission at the outset, noting that the institution is mandated to facilitate structured public input on legislative proposals. According to him, bypassing such mechanisms risks producing a law that reflects the views of a limited group rather than the broader citizenry.

He stated that the way the country remembers and honours its leaders carries emotional and symbolic weight. In his view, legislating without consulting the public risks disconnecting the law from the values it is meant to uphold. He added that state funerals are not merely administrative events but moments of national reflection that should align with Zambia’s cultural traditions and collective sense of dignity.

The MP also raised concerns about uncertainty surrounding the bill’s potential application to past events. Without clear guidelines, he warned, the legislation could affect how the nation commemorates leaders who have already passed, a scenario that highlights the need for precise and publicly vetted language.

Chisanga pointed to confusion over whether the motion was even debatable under parliamentary standing orders. He argued that the Speaker’s ruling should have been revisited to allow for a fuller airing of views, saying procedural questions that limit debate on issues of national importance weaken public confidence in the legislative process.

The proposed law also extends beyond former heads of state to include other senior officeholders, broadening its potential impact and administrative requirements. Chisanga urged the House to recognise that such scope requires careful calibration, something he said is achievable only through extensive consultation with traditional leaders, civil society, legal experts and citizens.

He reminded colleagues that laws governing national ceremonies are enduring frameworks that guide the country for generations. According to him, Zambia cannot afford to legislate in haste on matters that define how the nation mourns, remembers and unites in moments of loss. He said legislation built on consensus is more durable than one that appears imposed.

Chisanga further stated that protocols surrounding state funerals belong to the nation. He called for a broad conversation that invites Zambians from all backgrounds to contribute to decisions on how the country pays final respects to its leaders. He said inclusive deliberation would help government craft legislation that reflects Zambia’s identity, values and democratic character.