ZAMBIA Must Prosper (ZMP) president Kelvin Bwalya Fube, commonly known as KBF, has dismissed the idea of barring a sitting Head of State from attending a State funeral, following a reported demand by Lungu’s family alleging that it was late former president Edgar Lungu’s wish to bar President Hakainde Hichilema from attending his funeral.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CB5cWnXkS/?mibextid=oFDknk
Speaking during a live discussion hosted by DJ Showster, Bwalya, a lawyer, described the move as “practically impossible” and stressed that State funerals are matters of national importance governed by established protocol, not private preference.
“It is not possible to exclude a sitting Head of State from a State funeral. In every country, such ceremonies are carried out with full government protocol, regardless of personal differences,” said Bwalya.
His remarks come in the wake of a controversial statement by Makebi Zulu, the spokesperson of the forner first family, who said it was Lungu’s personal wish that President Hichilema should not be present at the funeral or near his remains.
The issue has triggered national debate, with citizens on social media demanding written proof to confirm such a claim while others have called for unity and dignity, urging the family to allow national healing to take place through proper state processes.
KBF likened the Government’s handling of the situation to choosing the wrong ‘Bashi Bukombe’ in marriage talks as a way of illustrating the importance of diplomatic representation in sensitive matters.
“Just like in marriage where you send someone capable and respected to speak on your behalf as Bashi Bukombe, it matters who the government sends to negotiate with the family,” he said.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema has issued a brief statement calling on the nation to observe peace, respect and unity during the mourning period.
“Zambians must be given the decency to mourn their Sixth Republican President with honour and dignity,” President Hichilema stated.
He further indicated that once the funeral concludes, his office will engage in consultations aimed at strengthening unity and respect among political stakeholders and the citizenry.
The government earlier declared national mourning for the late Edgar Lungu, who passed away last week in South Africa.
Details regarding the funeral program are expected to be finalised in consultation with the family.
By George Musonda
Kalemba June 14, 2025
