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The Bank of Zambia has noted that weakening economic growth, load shedding and tightening liquidity in Zambia are threatening financial stability in the market.
And the Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has maintained the policy rate, a key determinant in lending rates, at 10.25 percent.
BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya says the committee took into account projected inflation remaining above the upper bound of the 6.8 percent target range, tightened liquidity and reduced production owing to electricity challenges.
Dr. Kalyalya noted that increased food prices owing to droughts in the last farming season have also had a negative toll on inflation.
He says the above factors required the upward adjustment for the policy rate but the Central Bank had to hold it pending some measures by the Ministry of Finance.
Speaking during the MPC quarterly briefing in Lusaka today Dr. Kalyalya noted that global growth has equally weakened with demand for copper by China having reduced owing to decline in investment in emerging markets and reduction in global trade due to ongoing trade tensions between the USA and China among others.
And Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor Operations Francis Chipimo said access to finance has remained a challenge for private sector growth and investment.
Dr. Chipimo however said there are a lot of developmental issues being undertaken aimed at enabling the financial sector mobilize savings and lend money to investors with ideas.
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma
By Chimwemwe Mwanza
Vicious, vindictive and vengeful aptly describes the Zambian political arena. Former Presidents, Kenneth Kaunda, Rupiah Banda and the late Frederick Chiluba all have scars to prove this. In the 80’s, Kaunda locked up Chiluba on flimsy charges that failed to hold in a court of law. After he became Head of State, Chiluba retaliated by sending Kaunda to Mukobeko maximum prison.
The irony for Chiluba is that his handpicked successor, Levy Mwanawasa motivated Parliament to waive off the latter’s immunity thereby exposing Chiluba to several graft charges formulated by the now defunct Task Force on Corruption. With his legacy tainted by a skewed narrative, only death saved Chiluba from possible jail time. To erase his predecessor’s legacy and ensure his humiliation, the late Sata’s PF re-created this trend by consigning Rupiah to a life of court appearances.
Off significance to this conversation, UPND leader, Hakainde Hichilema (HH) served time in Lilayi prison on a laughable treason charge – this at the hands of the current PF regime. For a fact, HH has never hidden his disdain for President Edgar Lungu and his stint in a tiny Lilayi prison cell has probably served to reinforce the UPND leader’s contempt for the President.
Just why such vindictiveness and blatant abuse of power seems to gratify incumbents is hard to understand. In the absence of reason, one might well speculate that this show of brutality is all about a naked flexing of political muscle – a bit more like, ‘can I show you who is the boss’. Whatever the reason, the difficulty is that this trend erodes the very democratic tenets and political maturity that Zambia is renowned for in the rest of Africa and the world over.
Which makes 2021 an interesting contest. Other than bread and butter issues, the fore mentioned factors will weigh heavily on the minds of both President Lungu and HH heading closer to the polls.
Who is likely to win?
The tiny but seismic shift in fundamentals on the ground seem to suggest that this will be a closely fought contest. Besides, recent electoral predictions across the globe – even by the most experienced pundits have gone against the grain making it even more difficult to provide an accurate outcome.
For example, in 2012, several analysts predicted an outright victory for Rupiah’s MMD only for the PF to spring a surprise. Suffice to acknowledge that, while characteristics of the Zambian electoral landscape may differ in comparison to mature democracies, there are similarities to draw from – especially in elections where the voter’s desire for change outweighs any other considerations.
Unaware of a groundswell desire for change, an over-confident former British Premier, David Cameroon called a snap referendum to determine Britain’s future in the European Union (EU). He was stunned at the outcome. Against odds, the British electorate voted for Brexit thus paving the way for what has now become Britain’s messy divorce from the EU trade block.
Humiliated by a razor thin loss to Brexit supporters, Cameroon was forced to call his time as leader of the conservative party. In yet one of the biggest election upsets of the 21st century, Donald Trump steam-rolled establishment candidate, Hillary Clinton to become the 45th President of the US. Therefore, the notion that either the PF or UPND might have an edge over the other heading towards 2021 is fallacious. Truth is, this is an election that could swing either way.
Why ECL will be desperate to win
Despite the PF’s public show of confidence, their determined focus on HH and constant whip-lashing of his perceived tribal inclinations, best illustrates their genuine fears and by extention their desperation. Rightly so, they can’t afford to be complacent. 2021 will be a referendum on their ten years in power. Be rest assured that this is one election where the PF’s well – oiled propaganda machinery will likely throw both the sink and kitchen at the UPND bearing in mind what is at stake. In fact, the proposed amendment to the constitution is intended to disadvantage the opposition ahead of the polls.
What troubles the mind is that the current constitution which the PF is attempting to discard was signed into law by the sitting President amid a jam-packed Independence stadium. Three years later, it’s tempting to ask. What has changed to warrant an amendment to this sacred document? By now, PF knows too well that the much-punted humility of their candidate might be a hard-sale more so to an electorate that appears too desperate for change. They can’t afford lethargic arguments such as they being the only party with a manifesto. Need they be reminded that having a manifesto is one thing and delivering on its content is another.
What about the promise that they would lower taxes and put more money in the pockets of the working class? Did they deliver on such including creation of job opportunities? You be the judge. The President is aware that he will be facing an electorate that is weary of rising food costs. A persistent drought over the last two seasons has only compounded the hunger situation – more so in outlying areas of the country. In addition, the policy uncertainty in mining taxation and the stand – off between government and sections of the mining community is taking its toll on economic growth. Perceptions around inaction on corruption might not help his cause either. While some of these challenges might not be, the PF’s making, the electorate always tend to punish a sitting government for their suffering – sometimes unfairly so.
Never mind whether HH has genuine or has yet to formulate charges against the PF, he has consistently warned that the PF leadership will be called to account for wrong doing once he becomes President. The tacit implication of this threat is that, HH is already extending bed spaces at Chimbokaila, Kamwala Remand and possibly Lilayi prisons for use by the PF leadership. And knowing fully well what is at stake, a possible loss is too ghastly for the PF to contemplate. For President Lungu, there will be no better motivation to win the polls than lose to a sworn rival.
Its State House or bust for HH
PF has over-exposed the country to a mountain of debt that will outlive generations to come. It is precisely why the 2021 polls will boil down to the economy. As a businessman, HH knows too well the implications of our foreign debt on the fiscus. Zambia can’t afford to keep borrowing to fund consumption and expenditure on non-productive sectors of the economy.
This is the message he has been selling the grassroots. For a fact, he has the support of the broader investment community, including some global mining giants. Most important though, the International Monetary Fund appears to have factored in his possible victory in 2021 hence their reluctance to engage the current government on a possible economic rescue package.
The question is, has the UPND leader’s message of change found resonance with the electorate? While he appeals to the affluent and middle class in Parklands, Kansenshi and Kabulonga, the grassroots in Mandevu, kwa Nagoli and Chamboli seem to be struggling to grasp his vision for the country. Be reminded that he desperately needs this voting block to win the elections.
Against the backdrop of challenges, this looks like HH’s election to lose. Fact is, he can’t afford a record of 4 election loses on the trot. Such a scenario will certainly cast him into political wilderness and the glue that’s bound the UPND together over the years will finally loosen. Is this what he wants?
It’s entirely up to him and how he manages his campaign otherwise it might just well be that he will once again fall short of expectation and hand the PF another 5 years in power. And him being such a vexatious litigant, our Supreme and Constitutional courts will likely be kept busy. Watch this space.
The author is an avid reader of political history and philosophy. He loves Nshima with game meat. For feedback contact him on kwachaoneATgmailDOTcom
Growing up in the 1990s, I witnessed Zambia stand tall as a beacon of peace—not just in the region, but across the African continent. Under the leadership of our then-president, Frederick Chiluba, Zambia played a central role in promoting dialogue, mediating conflicts, and hosting peace negotiations that shaped the course of nations.
Zambia was not just known as a peaceful country; it was the headquarters of peace in southern Africa. We watched with pride as our capital, Lusaka, hosted landmark agreements like the Lusaka Protocol, which brought together Angolan President Eduardo dos Santos and UNITA rebel leader Jonas Savimbi in a bid to end the protracted civil war in Angola. We also witnessed Congo’s newly installed president, Dr. Laurent-Désiré Kabila, sign peace accords with over 18 rebel groups—right here in Lusaka. These moments were not mere political events; they were affirmations of Zambia’s identity as a stabilizing force and an honest broker in times of crisis.
But something has changed.
Today, the story feels different. The confusion and political friction surrounding the funeral of our sixth Republican President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, have left many wondering: Where did we go wrong?
I believe I have an answer—politics.
Politics have become divisive, toxic, and misunderstood. Somewhere along the way, we lost sight of the true spirit of democracy. Instead of embracing diversity of thought and opposition as pillars of a healthy system, we have allowed suspicion, bitterness, and mistrust to define our political interactions. Democracy was never meant to create enemies; it was meant to create space for conversation, accountability, and growth.
That’s why I was deeply encouraged by President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent address to the nation. His reminder that politics should not turn us into enemies is a necessary and timely message. It is a step in the right direction—and hopefully, a turning point.
When this moment of political tension and misunderstanding eventually passes—and it must—we must not return to business as usual. Instead, I strongly believe that President Hichilema should initiate a Commission on Peace, Reconciliation, and National Unity. Such a platform could allow Zambia to revisit its founding values, heal political wounds, foster mutual respect among stakeholders, and restore our nation’s rightful place as a beacon of peace in Africa.
When I heard that former President Edgar Lungu’s final wish was for President Hakainde Hichilema not to attend his funeral, my heart sank. Zambia is in mourning—not only for a former head of state, but for national unity. Instead, Lungu’s burial risks becoming another political battleground.
My prayerful appeal—especially to the Lungu family and the Patriotic Front (PF)—is this, “Do not let the bitterness of his final years bury the dignity of his legacy.”
In life, it’s often the final acts we remember most. In African culture, funerals can speak louder than a lifetime of public service. We must not allow the drama surrounding President Lungu’s burial to eclipse the memory of his immense contributions. He deserves to be remembered as the first Zambian president to meaningfully invest in national infrastructure. Whether future leaders will match his achievements remains to be seen.
To the Lungu family and PF faithful, I hear your pain. The wounds of political persecution, public vilification, and official silence are still fresh. But pain, when carried with dignity, can be transformative. Sometimes, offering an olive branch in your lowest moment isn’t weakness—it’s the highest form of strength.
Ironically, this funeral places President Hichilema and the UPND in a moral and political bind. If he offers praise, critics may call it “lies”—ahead of 2026. So why not let him face that discomfort publicly? Let the presence of mourning Zambians—grateful, grieving, and proud of Lungu—speak louder than any speech. Let Hichilema see, firsthand, the love people still carry for the man he once mocked and insulted. Let their silent tears become a moral rebuke and a great lesson all of us–leadership is appreciated by the ruled.
In many ways, the PF and the Lungu family now hold the moral high ground. Allowing President Hichilema to attend the funeral would not excuse his actions—it would expose them. It would say, with grace and resolve, “We are better than what was done to us. We are still here.”
I don’t want to excuse President Hichilema. He failed to treat his predecessor with the respect due a former head of state. But if we descend into tit-for-tat politics, we become the mirror image of what we claim to oppose.
I believe there is still time. Still time for the Lungus to reconsider their position. Still time for PF leaders to counsel from wisdom, not anger. There is, of course, still time for Zambians—regardless of party—to choose dignity, sympathy and unity over divisions.
Let’s avoid judging the Lungus too harshly. They are grieving a man who, despite public humiliation, remained committed to peace and democracy. They carry a burden of injustice. Perhaps, now is the time to lay that burden at the altar of national unity. Yet only God can give the grace to do it. Indeed, grace, when embraced, can change hearts.
It is important to note that President Hichilema would attend not as a friend, but as head of state. When Hichilema was inaugurated in 2021, President Lungu showed up—not out of admiration, but in respect for the people’s will. He stood with quiet dignity, even as he was mocked. He acknowledged Hichilema as Zambia’s president, despite never receiving the same recognition in return.
That selfless act of humility should likewise drive the HH administration to rise above partisanship—and perhaps even to apologize. Hichilema needs to hear the pain of the Lungu family. This is time to say, “I got it wrong. I am sorry.” Those aren’t words of weakness, but great marks of true leadership.
I would love to remember Edgar Lungu as a man of the people—humble, pragmatic, and relatable. His memory must not be erased by political vindictiveness over his burial. We cannot let today’s anger rewrite yesterday’s truth.
To the Lungus, may God comfort your hearts, and provide the strength to heal.
To the President and his administration, may you find the humility to listen—not only to criticism, but to the grief of the mourning family.
It is said, two wrongs don’t make a right. But grace in the face of grief? That can make history.
President Hakainde Hichilema has conveyed heartfelt condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India following the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, along with several individuals on the ground.
In an official statement released by State House and shared via the President’s facebook page, President Hichilema expressed Zambia’s deep sorrow and solidarity with India during what he described as a “heartbreaking tragedy.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, and to the people of India, following the tragic crash of Flight AI 171 yesterday in the city of Ahmedabad,” the statement read.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, the injured, and all those affected by this devastating incident. The people of Zambia mourn with the people of India during this difficult time. May all the departed souls rest in eternal peace.”
The tragic crash occurred on Thursday, 12 June 2025, when Flight AI 171, en route from London to Ahmedabad, reportedly suffered catastrophic failure upon approach. Multiple sources, including The Times of India and NDTV, have reported that emergency response teams rushed to the scene, battling fires and rescuing survivors amid widespread destruction. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has since declared a national day of mourning and visited survivors in hospital, according to India Today.
Zambia and India share longstanding diplomatic ties, and President Hichilema’s message of condolence highlights the shared human loss that transcends national borders.
As both nations grieve, tributes continue to pour in from world leaders, humanitarian agencies, and the global aviation community.
Zimbabwe has extended a strong message of solidarity with Zambia as the nation mourns the passing of its sixth Republican President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Zimbabwean Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who delivered the message during a courtesy visit to State House, conveyed heartfelt condolences from President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe to President Hakainde Hichilema and the Zambian nation.
Speaking during the meeting, President Hichilema reaffirmed his government’s commitment to a peaceful and inclusive approach in managing the funeral arrangements. He emphasised that the process is grounded in dialogue and mutual respect, rather than unilateral decisions.
“We are not using presidential authority to impose decisions. Instead, we are engaging in continuous dialogue with the former first family to ensure a consensus-driven and dignified send-off,” President Hichilema said.
He expressed confidence that the funeral programme will be finalised and announced once agreement is reached among all key parties. The President also described the passing of Dr. Lungu as a deeply unfortunate moment in Zambia’s history, noting with sorrow that the country is now without any surviving former Head of State.
In his message, President Mnangagwa conveyed through Vice President Chiwenga that the people of Zimbabwe stand shoulder to shoulder with Zambia during this difficult time.
“Zambia and Zimbabwe are one people. What affects one affects the other,” said Vice President Chiwenga on behalf of President Mnangagwa. “We grieve with you and urge the people of Zambia to remain strong.”
The message underscores the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two neighbouring nations, whose liberation struggles and post-independence journeys have been closely linked.
President Lungu passed away on June 7, 2025. The Zambian government declared a seven-day national mourning period, and dignitaries from across the region and globe have continued to pay tribute to the late leader.
As the nation awaits the official funeral programme, President Hichilema has called for peace, unity, and reflection, urging all citizens to honour the late President with dignity and respect.
President Hakainde Hichilema delivered a televised address to the nation, calling for peace, unity, and compassion as Zambia continues to mourn the passing of its sixth President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
In his address broadcast live on ZNBC and streamed across various online platforms President Hichilema urged Zambians to set aside political differences and stand together in honour of the late leader.
“Let us use this solemn period to reaffirm our shared values — unity, peace, and love. Political differences should never breed hatred or division,” the President said.
The President extended condolences to Dr. Lungu’s family, members of the Patriotic Front (PF), and its supporters, appealing for national solidarity in their moment of grief.
“Now is a time to show compassion. Our humanity must shine above all else,” he stated.
President Hichilema reaffirmed his commitment to serve all citizens equally, regardless of ethnicity, region, or political affiliation. His message comes amidst heightened political tensions and circulating claims from some PF members regarding the circumstances surrounding Dr. Lungu’s death.
While calling for restraint, President Hichilema issued a stern warning against acts of provocation and public disorder.
“This Government will not tolerate any form of lawlessness or anarchy. But equally, I urge citizens not to be drawn into provocation or incitement,” he warned.
The President’s remarks follow concerns about inflammatory rhetoric and the politicisation of Dr. Lungu’s death, as highlighted earlier this week by Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa.
President Hichilema concluded his speech by calling on Zambians to reflect on the nation’s journey and recommit to the ideals of democracy, peace, and mutual respect.
“We must carry forward the values that unite us. Let us mourn with dignity and remember that we are, first and foremost, Zambians.”
Dr. Edgar Lungu, who served as President from 2015 to 2021, passed away on June 7, 2025. In his honour, a seven-day national mourning period was declared from June 8 to June 14.
Lungu Family Rejects Government-Led Funeral, Insists on Honouring Late President’s Final Wishes
The family of Zambia’s late sixth Republican President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, has issued a firm statement rejecting government-led funeral arrangements, insisting instead on fulfilling the late president’s personal wishes regarding the handling of his remains and the conduct of national mourning.
Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu passed away on Thursday, 5th June 2025, in South Africa. Since his death, the family has engaged in several meetings with delegations from the Zambian government to discuss the logistics of his repatriation and funeral. However, those engagements have now reached a deadlock.
In a strongly worded statement, the Lungu family revealed that they had already made all logistical arrangements privately to transport the late president’s body to Zambia. Crucially, they reiterated one of Dr. Lungu’s final requests — that his mortal remains be conveyed solely by his family and not by the state. The family also made it clear that President Hakainde Hichilema should not be present during any stage of the transportation or funeral, citing reasons that have “since become common cause,” hinting at the fraught relationship between the two leaders.
Government delegations led by Foreign Affairs Minister Mlambo Haimbe and later by former Vice President Enoch Kavindele were initially open to the family’s wishes, the statement said. However, the family claims the government later changed positions after “purported consultations,” undermining previously agreed-upon terms.
“The family is disturbed by the desire of the government of the Republic of Zambia to convey the mortal remains… in ways that suggest that they have no say,” the statement read. “Matters of conscience for both the deceased and the family should not be sacrificed at the order of convenience by the government.”
Adding to the strain, the family accused the government of sidelining them in critical decisions surrounding how the late president should be mourned. They emphasized that state protocol should not override the personal conscience of the deceased or the dignity of family choice.
Despite the impasse, the Lungu family reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the late president is mourned in a manner befitting his status — both by the nation and international dignitaries. They also indicated that the public would be informed of alternative funeral arrangements, suggesting a growing rift over who should lead the national mourning process.
CONCLUSION: As Zambia prepares to bid farewell to a former head of state, the tensions between state protocol and personal legacy have come to the fore. The Lungu family’s firm stance has now raised broader questions about the politics of national mourning, the autonomy of bereaved families, and the handling of presidential legacies in a polarized political climate. A peaceful resolution remains possible — but only if mutual respect prevails over control.
Right now, as Zambia mourns the passing of its Sixth Republican President, something shameful is unfolding before our eyes. What should be a moment of unity, reflection, and national dignity has instead become a theatre of political bitterness, orchestrated by a desperate opposition that cannot tell the difference between power and pettiness.
The Patriotic Front, through lawyer Makebi Zulu, has publicly barred President Hakainde Hichilema from attending the funeral of Edgar Chagwa Lungu. Their words are not just cold they are chilling:
“President Hakainde Hichilema should not be anywhere near the body… for reasons that have since become common cause.”
What reasons? None have been honestly stated. But the message is clear: the PF would rather keep the casket than open the door to national healing. This is not grief. This is manipulation. And Zambia is watching.
Instead of honouring their own leader with grace, PF has decided to weaponize his death, dragging his grieving widow and children into a storm of bitterness. The Lungu family deserves peace, silence, and space to mourn. What they’re getting is scripts, microphones, and cameras. It’s cruel. It’s calculated. And it’s playing out in real time.
On the other hand, the UPND has so far exercised noticeable restraint. Secretary General Batuke Imenda advised members not to comment and they haven’t. That discipline matters. President Hichilema has maintained a composed silence despite provocation, and that silence speaks volumes. It reflects emotional control, institutional respect, and the understanding that not every battle is fought with words.
The contrast is jarring. While some are performing for headlines, others have chosen dignity. This isn’t about politics. It’s about national responsibility. When people are grieving, leaders are expected to lead by example to unite, not divide.
An opportunity to strengthen our democracy has been rejected by a small group of cadres trying to undermine our national motto, One Zambia, One Nation.
Let’s be brutally honest. What we’re witnessing isn’t just a reaction to death it’s a performance built on resentment. It’s an attempt to provoke chaos and stir public anger.
Instead what we have seen is a nation, which has been mourning in quiet dignity, now increasingly ready to move on.
European Union (EU) has commended the government for its zero-tolerance to mining pollution.
Speaking during a partnership dialogue meeting, EU Ambassador to Zambia, Karolina Stasiak, says that Zambia’s target of increasing copper production will see a rise in mining licenses, which calls for strong preventive measures in mining pollution.
Ms. Stasiak further emphasised on the need for the mining industry to act responsibly and respect the laws of Zambia.
“Our leaders are committed that the EU would support enhancing the role of Zambian forests in national development, and address challenges related to deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss,” Ms Stasiak, noted.
Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, added that the government is committed to reviewing policies and legislations in order to sharpen focus towards the promotion of green growth, environmental sustainability and climate action.
Mr. Mposha stated that his ministry will continue to address other significant environmental pollution cases affecting air, water, land and ecosystems across the country through expanded monitoring systems and strengthened enforcement capacity.
One day, dark clouds descended on the village of Zambodia…..The tree had fallen….It was a gigantic one…..the one that proudly stood at the heart of the village and towered above other trees as it defiantly soared into the clear blue skies…..
Each day that went by…..the villagers of Zambodia flocked to the tree enmass…..for it provided not only shelter…..Every treasure one would think of to please body and soul….. exotic fruits, natural honey, mouth-watering caterpillars and a variety of game, hard wood, herbs, the tree was the source. For quite some 7 donkey years, the tree was the bloodline of the village.
Alas! The big tree was so trusting that it was blinded to the shoddy characters surrounding it……these came in different shades and hues – draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures!
Whenever the big tree released resources for the benefit of the village, the draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures deposited the bulk of it in their pockets and apportioned a pittance to the villagers.
As the years went by, the tree was sapped of its energy……it could barely stand. However, even as it dawned upon the draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures that the tree was well past its shelf life, they kept egging it on and propping it up for obvious reasons – sucking it dry and eating its fruit! This became a daily routine; it didn’t matter what time of the day – morning, afternoon or evening!
As the day replaced the night, and vice versa though….it became as clear as glass the tree could hardly stand. Time was fast running out.
One quite evening as the villagers tried to compete with the dead, the usual suspects – draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures gathered around the tree. They emitted guttural sounds hitherto unheard of in the village that echoed into the night for miles and miles on end. As some draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures performed a macabre dance around the big tree, others prostrated themselves flat on the ground and rolled till eternity….
The big tree had fallen……the draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures didn’t want anyone near the big tree – including the village headman; for it was said there was more treasure hidden under the big tree…..
As the village headman decreed that the tree must be prepared and taken away where other similar trees are concealed within 7 days, the draculas, hyenas, serpents, jackals and vultures were obviously livid! They immediately issued warnings that no one should dare stray anywhere near the big tree as the villagers of Zambodia watched in utter shock and disbelief….
The death of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu should have united Zambia in solemn mourning. Instead, it has cracked open political wounds—threatening to turn his burial into a national crisis.
Rather than calming the waters, the UPND leadership seems to be digging in. Aside from its disjointed messaging, morally and emotionally, it is in a far weaker position than the Lungu family and the Patriotic Front (PF). With every press statement, threat, and act of procedural control, the state deepens the grief of the bereaved and hands the PF a powerful political opening.
Many UPND officials expect the PF to remain apolitical. This is wishful thinking. This funeral is being weaponized for a reason—the PF knew Lungu was its biggest asset for retaining power. With him gone, how it handles his death is key to its future. Beyond portraying itself and Lungu as victims of a vindictive regime, the PF has cast the UPND as indifferent to grief. By weaponizing bureaucracy, the HH administration is allowing the PF to mobilize, reclaim sympathy, and reframe the national conversation to its advantage.
President Hichilema’s administration must recognize another optic. Former First Lady Esther Lungu and her daughter Tasila are not passive mourners—they are active actors in their own right. Both have been on the receiving end of state persecution. Tasila, in particular, is a rising political force—possibly eyeing the presidency one day. Her father’s death has silently re-catapulted her into the national spotlight.
She stood by her father when he was booed at Hichilema’s inauguration. That image—one of filial loyalty in the face of public scorn—seared itself into the national memory. Many now await to see how she will honor him in death. But unlike other former presidents’ children, Tasila has won people’s hearts. She needs the PF to realize her dreams—and against Mweetwa’s antics, negotiations over Lungu’s funeral won’t happen without the PF at the table.
With the PF behind them, the Lungus won’t bow to the state’s demands. They have no reason to comply and every reason to resist. This is their chance to turn the tables on a system that has relentlessly harassed them. (If the Church didn’t stop HH from harassing them, why should it intervene now?) Moreover, the state cannot bury Lungu without their consent. Lungu was not just a former president, but a father and husband. They watched him die, and they deserve the dignity to grieve without state coercion.
To insist that the state dictates his funeral arrangements is tone-deaf. Lungu died a “neglected” private citizen. The UPND’s insistence on protocol—on treating his death as state property—only heightens tensions and hardens resentment. Besides, the family knows that an official state funeral could be held in the future under a different regime.
No doubt, the state has a role to play—but it must act as a respectful partner. Protocol only matters if it is acknowledged by all parties. In this situation, it is not. The PF and the Lungu family must set the tone, and the government must follow—not lead.
The President’s role and funeral arrangements ought to be negotiated with humility. Why not offer material support—tents, logistics, security—at the PF Secretariat as opposed to Belvedere Lodge? The UPND stands to gain no political capital from Lungu’s death. Public opinion is already formed.
Some are pointing to the Church to resolve the crisis. But what about First Lady Mutinta Hichilema? Could she be that bridge? Could she quietly reach out to Esther and Tasila Lungu—not through press conferences, but through the soft power of shared experience and maternal empathy?
Mutinta is a mother, too. She could speak to Tasila in ways the President cannot. She knows her husband better than anyone and may communicate with a nuance that politics simply doesn’t allow. She has no points to score—only peace and sympathy to offer both parties. I am not suggesting one meeting, but a number of discussions devoid of cameras. Could her soft power be the missing link?
I don’t want to dismiss the anger of the Lungus or the PF. It is real. The UPND officials’ overreach in attempts to impress the President could spark unrest. Yet I still believe that a careful, inclusive, and compassionate approach could bring us together. In mourning, there are no winners—only fragile, wounded human hearts. Lungu deserves a dignified burial. His family deserves compassion and respect. Zambia deserves peace.
Threats won’t give us any of these. But humility just might.
Residents of Kabinga Chiefdom in Kanchibiya District in Muchinga Province have commended the government for providing farming inputs through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), stating that the support has significantly improved their agricultural productivity.
Greenard Mulenga, a local farmer, has described the CDF farming inputs as life changing, noting that the empowerment programme has not only transformed his livelihood but also increased his farm’s production capacity.
Speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) , Mr. Mulenga said the farming inputs serve as capital for farmers which lead to improved harvests providing clear evidence of the programme’s success.
“Government has given us capital to start our farming businesses and it is up to us to utilise it to benefit our livelihoods,” he said.
Lusaka, Zambia – June 10, 2025 — The United Party for National Development (UPND) has moved to restore internal discipline and coherence during the national mourning period following the passing of former Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu. In a strongly worded statement issued by Secretary General Hon. Batuke Imenda, the ruling party has cautioned its members against issuing unsanctioned public remarks regarding the late president.
The UPND leadership has emphasized the importance of unified messaging, solemn conduct, and respect for national mourning protocols, urging its members to channel all official communication through designated party or government offices. The directive aims to curb political indiscipline and safeguard the dignity of the nation during this sensitive time.
Below is the full statement from the UPND Secretariat:
UPND SECRETARIAT CAUTIONS AGAINST UNAUTHORIZED STATEMENTS ON THE DEMISE OF FORMER PRESIDENT EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has issued a formal statement cautioning its members against making unauthorized public comments following the death of former Republican President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
In a notice released today the party’s Secretary General, Hon. Batuke Imenda, expressed concern over the proliferation of unsanctioned remarks made by individual party members.
“It has come to the attention of the Secretary General of the governing party that members have been issuing statements and comments on the demise of the former Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu without clearance or authority from the UPND Secretariat,” Mr. Imenda said.
Calling for a unified and respectful approach to national mourning, Mr. Imenda emphasized the importance of discipline, protocol, and solemnity during this period. “As we are mourning as a nation, we need to conduct ourselves in a systematic and organized solemn manner, preach peace and unity,” he added.
The UPND has now directed that all official communication regarding the party’s position or participation during the mourning period will be issued solely by the Office of the Secretary General, Party Spokesperson and the Party Media Team. Official government statements will be communicated by the Secretary to the Cabinet or the Chief Government Spokesperson.
Furthermore, all members or affiliates who wish to make public comments on this matter must first seek express authorization from the Office of the Media Director, Mr. Mark Simuuwe.
“This should be taken as an official notification,” the statement stated.
The UPND reiterates its condolences to the family of the late President Lungu and calls on all Zambians to stand together in dignity and respect during this time of national loss.
Amid wild speculation and confusion surrounding the alleged death of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President Hakainde Hichilema has once again demonstrated leadership marked by maturity, calmness, and respect for national values.
While the Patriotic Front (PF) leadership and some of its supporters have chosen to react with panic, suspicion, and even political hostility, President Hichilema has maintained a dignified silence—choosing not to politicize the matter but to preserve peace and unity in the nation.
In any democracy, former heads of state are regarded not only as retired leaders but as national assets. They symbolize the country’s history, transitions, and lessons—whether good or bad. It is therefore important that issues concerning their health or well-being are handled with the utmost responsibility, not political recklessness.
The recent behaviour by some PF officials and sympathizers, sadly, reflects the same emotional and confrontational style of leadership that cost them the 2021 general elections. Instead of issuing clear statements to calm their supporters or engaging the public with facts, some chose to fuel confusion through conflicting messages on social media, further dividing an already tense public space.
President Hichilema’s silence is not ignorance—it is strategic leadership. It speaks volumes about his commitment to national unity and his refusal to be dragged into political drama at a time when the country needs clarity, not chaos.
It is high time the PF leadership and those close to the former president family come to terms with reality. The public deserves honest, respect during the mourning period—not political manipulation or blame games.
Zambia belongs to all Zambians—past, present, and future. In moments of uncertainty, the country looks to its leaders—both in and out of office—for guidance and maturity. President Hichilema has shown that. It’s now up to others to do the same.
As the country goes through an unfortunate impasse between the family/party of the late president Edgar Lungu and the state, I suggest that the president makes a compromise speech that goes something like this:
Countrymen and Women,
As you all know, we currently have an unfortunate impasse following the death of President Edgar Lungu (MHSRIP), with different interests insisting on their own way as the only path forward concerning the funeral and burial of our late president.
As an act of compromise, I have decided that I and the top leadership of my party will not be attending the state funeral or burial of our beloved former president.
This is simply out of respect for the family and widow of president Lungu. Due to so much misinformation circulating in the country through social media, she may feel that I personally, and my party the UPND, hold some culpability in the events that culminated in the death of their beloved father and husband.
Let me clarify once and for all that when the benefits of retirement were withdrawn from the former president, we were only following the law; and this was a law that we did not make or even amend. We are a country of laws and we will be in breach of our Oath if we do not follow the law as it is written. This was neither my personal decision nor the decision of anyone in the UPND party or government.
Other than that, I must acknowledge that president Lungu and I did have an acrimonious relationship due to the nature of politics. This does not mean that I hated him personally, nor does it mean that he hated me personally. It is the nature of politics that sometimes you issue very strong statements against each other as you compete for political office so that you can bring the vision that you believe is the better one for the people. Naturally, you always believe the other person and his party have the worse policies for the country and you make it your duty to inform the public in the most passionate way. This can come off as personal hatred to some people, and some opportunists can take advantage of that perception and build all kinds of false stories that the public might find easy to believe.
The reason I have decided that my party and administration officials will stay away from this important function is therefore simply out of empathy for the family so that they may not feel tormented by our presence, given all the unfortunate misinformation that they may have come across. Some people have even recklessly implied that I had a hand in the actual death of the president, besides many such false rumours, so I can understand if Mrs Lungu may feel highly conflicted by my presence at the burial and funeral of our late former president.
I am therefore giving a directive to Cabinet Office to liaise with the army commander to manage and conduct the proceedings of a state funeral and burial that accords all the full respects to our former Commander-in-Chief and I will only send my blessing to them. As UPND president, I will also ask that our party withdraws from attending these events in their official capacity and allow the Patriotic Front to take preeminence at these functions. We will still mourn him in our own way, but there is no law that requires us to have official representation at these functions.
I hope this compromise helps in the process of our country healing from the acrimony that the deep political rifts have inflicted on our nation, as we move closer to the values of empathy demanded by our Christian nation.
A number of people have come out with guns blazing wondering why President Hichilema continues to remain tight-lipped amidst demise of 6th Republican president Edgar Lungu.
The first one to throw a salvo was of course United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) Chairman, Sakwiba Sikota! During his visit to the Patriotic Front (PF) Secretariat, Sikota issued the following statement, “I have not heard President Hichilema physically address the nation regarding the death of Edgar Lungu. Tell me if I missed it, to me, it’s something that is frightening to remain silent. You are the head of state and your predecessor passes away, and you remain silent.”
In no time, Mwila-Chigaga, the widow of the late former finance minister in the United National Independence Party (UNIP) government Gibson Chigaga, asserted that Hichilema’s silence is troubling. She claimed that the failure and inaction by President Hichilema to provide leadership on the state of affairs regarding the death of former president Lungu is hurting the nation.
Are people being truthful and honest with the comments they are making regarding President Hichilema’s silence…..or they are simply politicking, if not merely trying to scandalize him? Moreover, what does the Bible teach us about silence?
Given what we have witnessed in the PF camp in recent days, we’ve no doubt the former ruling party remains aggressive, cantankerous and unrepentant! How do you therefore expect anyone to reason with such kind of people? Consider the way PF cadres took up the entire lane on the Kafue – Lusaka as they raced to the funeral at breakneck speed while perched on the sides of the doors of their convoy? We’ve no doubt they were more than happy to go back to their vomit….’kaponya style’ of conducting themselves in an uncivilized manner!
Those of us that are better grounded in our culture would have little trouble appreciating that when sorrow of such magnitude has visited our village, everyone is expected to be at their best, sworn enemies may burry their hatchets while the likes of ‘Why Me’ would put their dictionaries of ear-splitting profanities aside for a while as everyone combine efforts to give their dear departed one a dignified send-off…..
But lo and behold, what have we seen or heard since ba Lungu passed away? Accusations, ultimatums, threats and dire warnings all aimed at one individual – President Hichilema! How do you honestly expect him to say or issue any comment regarding the funeral? There’s a huge possibility he wasn’t even officially informed about the funeral by the family or indeed the PF leadership. Let’s be fair for once!
The confusion and drama that has characterized ba Lungu’s funeral is totally uncalled for! How come the party has taken ovet the show? Didn’t the former president have senior members in his family?
When Levy Mwanawasa passed on for instance, senior elders in his family, Jazzman Chikwakwa and Leslie Mbula immediately took charge – giving daily updates and coordinating with government. Similarly, Frederick Chiluba’s uncle, Ben Mwila was on hand to provide guidance when he suddenly died. Emmanuel Mwamba is said to have been the last person with him when this happened; we hope he shall write a book one day to give an account of what really transpired on that day.
Considering the confusion characterized with PF, one would have expected pandemonium to have reigned supreme when its founding leader, Micheal Sata answered the Lord’s call. Fortunately, all the responsibilities of making funeral arrangements rested on the shoulders of his uncle, Alexander Chikwanda, working on cahoots with the state of course.
The same thing happened when our founding father, Kenneth Kaunda’s time finally came. His eldest son, Panji seamlessly worked with government to find common ground even when there was a deadlock as to where to hide his remains….well, according to his last will and testament.
And when our good Lord finally took Rupiah Banda away, we didn’t witness any acrimony or standoff between his family and party on one hand, and government on the other, as we are seeing today despite the PF having denied him permission to travel to South Africa for treatment when Lungu served as Minister of Home Affairs. The occupation of cadres was restricted to chewing and quaffing while his young brother James Banda sorted out things with government unlike what we are seeing with the ressurrected PF ‘commanders’ today.
Why has ba Lungu’s family allowed PF and its surrogates to politicize this funeral? Ever since he died on June 5, it has been one inflammatory and virulent remark after another – Lungu was poisoned! HH not welcome at Lungu’s funeral as he’ll pierce our hearts….The fight has just started! 3 times you denied Lungu life….Hichilema must stay away from the funeral!
Honestly, how do you expect the President to say anything given such circumstances?
As a wise person, the President has done well to remain mute lest he may be misquoted. If we had a way, we’d advise the President to stay away from the funeral and instead delegate his vice-president to do the honours. Why should the President be exposed to an environment where he is definitely going to be disrespected and insulted as the PF has already demonstrated.
Meanwhile we remain observing the proceedings from the terraces with keen interest.
Prince Bill M Kaping’a
National Coordinator
HH Mpaka 2031
People’s Alliances
