BARNABAS ZULU
GOVERNMENT has called for calm and unity among Zambians amid the tension that has been created surrounding the repatriation of late Sixth President Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s remains.
Cornelius Mweetwa, the Chief Government Spokesperson says President Hakainde Hichilema is firmly in control of the country and that Zambians should not panic after late former President Lungu’s family has halted the repatriation of the late former head of State remains.
This follows the announcement by Mr Makebi Zulu, the family spokesperson for the late president, that the planned return of Mr Lungu’s remains would not take place as scheduled.
Speaking in Choma yesterday during the funeral service of the country’s former First Secretary for Education at the Zambian Mission in Australia, Mweemba Mubita, Mr Mweetwa said the news had unsettled many citizens.
“This development is not only sad but a source of concern for many citizens,” Mr Mweetwa said.
He revealed that government and the Lungu family had held “lengthy but constructive engagements,” which led to resolutions jointly announced in South Africa – agreements that initially gave hope the impasse had been settled.
“While government understands the anguish and despair this sad announcement by the family may have caused among citizens, it remains hopeful that all will be well. This is just a temporary setback and with God’s help, we will resolve all these challenges in peace and unity of purpose,” Mr Mweetwa said.
Mr Mweetwa reassured the nation that President Hichilema remains fully in charge of national affairs despite the current challenges.
“Let me assure the people of Zambia that the President remains firmly in control,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Mweetwa described Mr Mubita as a peaceful and dedicated patriot who served the country with diligence and integrity. “I urge all Zambians serving in the diplomatic service to emulate the late Mubita by putting national interest above all else,” he said.
Mr Mubita was laid to rest at his father, Chief Hamusonde’s Muchende Ushiya Farms in Choma.
