The United Party for National Development -UPND – has condemned lawyer Makebi Zulu for what it describes as irresponsible public statements regarding President Hakainde Hichilema’s possible attendance at the burial of former President Edgar Lungu.
In a statement, UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe says Mr Zulu’s persistent commentary on the matter is creating unnecessary tension and public anxiety, adding that it is unusual for anyone to object to a sitting Head of State fulfilling constitutional responsibilities to honour a former President.
Mr Simuuwe says once a funeral is declared a State Funeral, the sitting President’s participation is a constitutional duty and national obligation that transcends political affiliations, and that Mr Zulu’s remarks are politicising a solemn moment of national mourning.
The party says it will no longer remain silent and will treat any further disparaging remarks by Mr Zulu as personal political attacks, whilst maintaining high esteem and compassion for the former First Family during this difficult time.
By Josphat Hamakala.
