09/06/2026
Fellow citizens,
Today, we gathered with many others in mourning, to honour the life of His Royal Highness Ingwenyama Inkosi Yamakosi Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV of the Ngoni-speaking people at Ephendukeni Palace in Chipata.
His Royal Highness was a symbol of humility, love and unity. He offered wisdom and guidance not only to the Eastern Province but to our entire nation. His leadership and counsel will be profoundly missed.
As we reflect on his legacy, we are reminded of our duty to uphold unity and peace across our country. We pray that God’s enduring peace and comfort be with the bereaved family, the Ngoni people, and the whole nation during this difficult time.
Leaders, whether traditional or political, who dedicate their lives to serving our nation deserve to be honoured with dignity that reflects the stature of their positions, even in death. This was our message as we reaffirmed the need to bring closure to the matter of the burial of the late Sixth President, Dr. Edgar C. Lungu, who remains unburied.
May the soul of His Royal Highness rest in eternal peace.
Hakainde Hichilema,
President of the Republic of Zambia.