LUSAKA Archbishop Alick Banda has described former president Edgar Lungu as a generous man who would empty his pockets in order to support the vulnerable, likening his generosity to that of former Defense Minister Godfrey Bwalya Mwamba (GBM).
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Archbishop Banda commended Lungu for his extraordinary generosity and selflessness.
The clergyman was speaking when he presided over the requiem service for the late president at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Hillbrow, Johannesburg.
Archbishop Banda proclaimed that Lungu an approachable and available leader who had a unique ability to relate well with the community, which made him a beloved figure in society.
“President Lungu was a humble man. He never forgot his humble beginnings and always treated others with respect and compassion. He embodied the values that we strive for as a nation and he will be greatly missed,” he said.
Reflecting on the late president Lungu’s tenure in office, Archbishop Banda commended his resilience and perseverance in navigating Zambia through numerous crises.
“From drought and the COVID-19 pandemic to economic struggles, Lungu demonstrated his unwavering dedication to public service, ensuring that our nation remained stable and secure despite the hardships.”
“His resilience and commitment to the welfare of our nation will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.”
Archbishop Banda stated that Lungu understood that leadership is about service and not personal gain; however, he never acted out of desperation for power when he left office.
He added that Lungu acted with a deep awareness that leadership is a form of stewardship, and it was about protecting and caring for the people and resources entrusted to one’s care.
In his tribute to the former president, Archbishop Banda urged Zambians to carry forward Lungu’s spirit of humility and service.
“We should not let the lessons of Lungu’s life and legacy go unnoticed, he was a leader who carried the burden of office with humility, mindful of the responsibility entrusted to him by the people. Let us honour his memory by emulating his example of leadership that is selfless and focused on service,” he said.
The Archbishop also called upon Zambians to not only eulogise him in words but also to honour his legacy through actions.
“We should celebrate Lungu’s life not only with words but also by committing ourselves to building a Zambia that reflects his values. Let us strive for peace, harmony, and reconciliation as a nation, and let us carry forward his dedication to dignity and service,” he added.
The clergyman further offered words of consolation to the Lungu family, acknowledging the sacrifices they had made and encouraging them to cherish the memories of their beloved.
However, the solemn funeral proceedings for former president Edgar Lungu scheduled for this morning in South Africa were halted abruptly, following legal action taken by Zambia’s Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha in Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa, Pretoria.
The case is likely to be concluded by August, meaning Lungu won will not be buried anytime soon unless a compromise is reached in the standoff between the former first family and government, over the burial procession.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba June 25, 2025
