Amid rising tension over the funeral arrangements for former President Edgar Lungu, church leaders have issued a heartfelt appeal for national healing and unity, urging Zambians to set aside political divisions and come together in collective mourning.
At a public prayer service held in Lusaka yesterday, the national council of churches emphasized that a dignified farewell for Lungu must transcend partisan conflicts. Describing the dispute over burial logistics, venue, and guest lists as “distracting and divisive,” clergy called on all involved parties political leaders, family members, and the public to prioritise peace and mutual respect.
Archbishop Emmanuel Mwenda of the Zambia Episcopal Conference spoke to a congregation of several hundred, stating: “In moments of loss, our strength lies in unity. We owe our respect to the departed and their family—not to political point-scoring.” He urged church members across denominations to lead by example, showing compassion and solidarity during the funeral.
Concerns have been mounting after competing announcements by government officials and Lungu’s family over key aspects of the ceremony sparked a wave of confusion and public anxiety. Some citizens voiced unease that the funerary process could set a precedent for political interference in private family ceremonies.
Responding to the concerns, the council proposed a joint committee of religious leaders, civil society groups, and family representatives to coordinate the events. Its objective is to ensure the funeral remains a solemn occasion free from partisan influence. The council also encouraged commemorative services across all faith communities, calling for moments of silence in schools, churches, mosques, and community centres nationwide.
Civil society leaders praised the intervention as timely and necessary. “This is a moment for national reflection, not division,” said Thandiwe Zulu of Unity Watch. “The Church’s step to bring people together demonstrates moral leadership at a moment when it is most needed.”
With funeral arrangements still in flux, church leaders have proposed scheduling a day of national prayer and remembrance ahead of the service an initiative receiving support from both grassroots congregations and respected traditional authorities.
As the country waits for clarity on burial details, the church’s moral call for healing resounds: to elevate empathy above politics, honour the memory of a former leader, and safeguard unity during a challenging moment in Zambia’s democratic journey.
