PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has explained his notable absence from both local and international engagements over the past month, stating he deliberately minimised public appearances out of respect for the ongoing funeral of former president Edgar Lungu.
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The President’s explanation came during a meeting with United States Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales at State House today.
President Hichilema explained that his decision was made to avoid any misinterpretation by Zambians during this sensitive period.
He noted that other officials were tasked with representing him at key meetings during his reduced public schedule.
“If you have noticed, in the last one month I have not been traveling outside, even inside, because of the funeral that we need to put to bed. It’s a decision I have taken. I don’t want to be misunderstood by fellow citizens,” President Hichilema said.
He revealed that while he remained behind the scenes, his ministers attended crucial international summits, including the Lobito Corridor meeting and other engagements in Spain, on his behalf.
The Head of State emphasised the importance of allowing space for the funeral process to conclude, aligning with what he described as African cultural norms of handling such matters with respect.
President Hichilema also addressed what he termed “wild speculations” on social media regarding his health and whereabouts during his period of low public visibility.
He acknowledged seeing posts online suggesting his absence was due to health concerns, an assertion he dismissed with a laugh.
“I saw on social media, because I scan social media, and they think I’m dying tomorrow,” he stated.
The President reiterated that his reduced public engagements were purely a matter of cultural respect and personal conviction.
By George Musonda
Kalemba July 9, 2025
