CITIZENS First party president, Harry Kalaba’s remarks regarding the pending ruling of the South African court are not only unfortunate but deliberately misleading, Youth of Substance Forum (YSF) coordinator, Rudolf Mwanza has said.
Mwanza said it is deeply regrettable that a former senior government official would resort to politicising a sensitive matter involving the late former president Edgar Lungu’s burial.
”Let us be clear, the Zambian government has not, at any point, attempted to interfere in the judicial process taking place in South Africa. Any suggestions to the contrary are baseless and unpatriotic,”he said.
He said the government has consistently expressed its willingness to abide by the outcome of the Pretoria High Court ruling scheduled for today, August 4, 2025.
Mwanza in a statement said Kalaba claims to speak in the interest of the Lungu family, yet chooses to ignore the fact that Lungu was not just a family man, he was a former Head of State.
He added that Lungu’s burial carries national significance and must be handled with the decorum and dignity befitting his office.
He said the government’s position has always aimed to strike a balance between the family’s wishes and the expectations of a grateful nation.
”What Zambia does not need right now are inflammatory statements made on radio platforms that only serve to sow confusion and mistrust. Mr. Kalaba should refrain from exploiting this solemn moment for political relevance,” he said.
Mwanza has since called for maturity, respect for due process, and a united approach in honouring the legacy of Lungu.
“We remain confident that the legal process will be respected by all parties, including the government.”
“It is unfortunate that Mr. Kalaba has chosen to cast aspersions where none are warranted. Let the courts do their job without undue noise from the political sidelines,” said Mwanza.
By Lucy Phiri
Kalemba August 4, 2025
