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The United Party for National Development (UPND) has accused former President Edgar Lungu’s family lawyer, Makebi Zulu, of creating unnecessary public tension and anxiety through his recent remarks.
UPND Media Director, Mark Simuuwe, said the party had observed with concern Zulu’s continued public statements regarding the possible attendance of President Hakainde Hichilema at the late Mr. Lungu’s burial.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday, Simuuwe described Zulu’s persistent commentary on the matter as “irresponsible and suspicious.”
“It is unusual and troubling for anyone to repeatedly object to the sitting Head of State fulfilling his constitutional and ceremonial responsibilities to honour a former Head of State,” Simuuwe said.
He added that Zulu’s behaviour raises “legitimate questions about what he knows or seeks to conceal from the Zambian people.”
Simuuwe emphasized that once a funeral is declared a State Funeral, the participation of the sitting President ceases to be optional.
“It is a constitutional duty and a national obligation. The President’s presence represents the unity and continuity of the Republic, and such occasions transcend political affiliations or personal egos,” he said.
The UPND official further stated that national interest should prevail over personal sentiments, and accused Zulu of politicising a moment meant for collective mourning.
“On one hand, he preaches reconciliation and unity, yet on the other, he issues divisive, disrespectful, and misleading remarks against the Head of State,” Simuuwe said, adding that the conduct exposes a “lack of sincerity, maturity, and respect for the national healing process.”
Simuuwe said the UPND viewed Zulu’s continued attacks on President Hichilema as acts of “malice and political opportunism” disguised as legal commentary.
“Let it be known that we will no longer remain silent as he attempts to tarnish the President’s image or undermine public confidence in the presidency during a period when the nation must stand together in grief and respect,” he said.
Simuuwe warned that any further disparaging remarks made by Zulu would be treated as personal political attacks, adding that future responses from the party would target him directly, not the former First Family.
“We continue to hold the former First Family in high esteem and compassion during this difficult time,” Simuuwe said.
He further claimed that Zulu’s statements were influenced by political motives.
“We are also fully aware of Mr. Zulu’s political ambitions, but he must be reminded that he was rejected by his own constituency during the 2021 parliamentary elections,” Simuuwe said.
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