Rogue online publications fanning divisions – Kalaba

By BARNABAS ZULU
CITIZENS First leader Harry Kalaba has condemned what he described as a malicious campaign by rogue online media outlets allegedly linked to State House, aimed at tarnishing the legacy of late former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Mr Kalaba said it was shameful that some people could still find time to attack President Lungu even in his death instead of allowing the nation to mourn with dignity.
“We have noted with deep sadness and concern that some online media pages believed to be affiliated with State House are busy spreading propaganda and falsehoods about President Edgar Lungu,” Mr Kalaba said. “This is not only unAfrican, it is unZambian and inhumane.”
Mr Kalaba, who served as Foreign Affairs Minister under Mr Lungu’s administration, said the former president deserved respect for his service to the nation and for the dignity he maintained throughout his political life.
“President Lungu was not a perfect man, but none of us are. What we must remember is that he led this nation with humility and calm during very difficult moments,” Mr Kalaba said.
“Even if some people didn’t agree with his politics, the decent thing to do now is to mourn him with the honour that befits a former head of State.”
He urged President Hakainde Hichilema to rein in individuals allegedly abusing media platforms under the guise of supporting the current administration.
“The President must take responsibility and call his people to order. Let us not dance on the grave of a man who can no longer speak for himself,” Mr Kalaba said.
He appealed to Zambians to reject any attempt to divide the nation during this period of mourning, saying, “This is a time to unite, not to provoke the nation with political hatred.”