20/06/2025
Media Statement
Date: 20th June 2025
Issued by: Obvious Mwaliteta, UPND Lusaka Province Chairman
*Subject: Diplomatic Embarrassment Caused by Former President Lungu’s Family
It is with great disappointment and concern that we address the recent embarrassment suffered by the government and people of South Africa, following the failure of Zambia’s former President Edgar Lungu’s family to honor an officially communicated diplomatic arrangement.
As was widely reported, the South African government made detailed preparations to receive what they had been led to believe would be the body of former President Lungu. Waterkloof Air Force Base was activated for a state level reception, complete with cabinet ministers, senior military officials, and a full protocol team. Aircraft parking bays were secured, ceremonial honor arrangements were made, and renowned SABC journalist Sophie Mokoena was deployed to cover what was expected to be a moment of international respect.
In an astonishing turn of events, no Zambian delegation from the Lungu family arrived. No communication was issued to cancel, reschedule, or explain the sudden absence. This lack of accountability and coordination resulted in a public and costly diplomatic failure.
The financial implications are significant. Mobilizing national resources, deploying high level personnel, and creating space at a military airbase are all exercises that come at a cost to South African taxpayers. Even more damaging, however, is the diplomatic fallout. South Africa’s gesture of goodwill and solidarity, an attempt to honor a former Zambian Head of State was met with silence and absence. It was, in every sense, a diplomatic slap in the face.
This incident undermines Zambia’s credibility on the regional and global stage. It sends a troubling message about our seriousness in international relations and may cause our South African counterparts to view Zambian institutions with diminished regard in future engagements.
Moreover, in an environment where political tensions and economic frustrations already exist, such a public affront risks fueling anti Zambian sentiment and increasing the chances of xenophobic backlash, something we must work tirelessly to avoid as citizens of a united continent.
The United Party for National Development (UPND) in Lusaka Province calls for immediate clarification and accountability from those responsible for this mismanagement. It is unacceptable for any family, regardless of political status to act in a manner that disrespects not only a foreign government but also embarrasses the Zambian people at large.
South Africa extended a hand of honor. That hand should not have been left hanging.
We express our gratitude to the South African government for their effort, their generosity of spirit, and their respect toward what they believed was a solemn occasion. As President Hichilema stated yesterday, we echo his sentiments and reemphasize that we regret deeply that their goodwill was taken for granted.
Issued by:
Obvious Mwaliteta
UPND Lusaka Province Chairman
