By Chinoyi Chipulu
The UPND has condemned PF vice president Given Lubinda’s speech at the funeral of Wesley Chibambo popularly known as Dandy Krazy on Monday.
And UPND deputy media director, Cheelo Katambo has urged Lubinda to apologize to the family of Chibambo and to the Zambian people.
During the funeral of Chibambo at the ShowGrounds in Lusaka, Lubinda said the people who attacked the late at Heroes stadium some months ago, including those who sponsored the attackers were present to mourn him.
But in a statement, Katambo stated that funerals were a time for reflection, respect and unity, not a time for political posturing.
Katambo stated that Lubinda’s decision to exploit that moment of mourning for personal and political gain was a clear violation of the peaceful and respectful environment that the UPND had diligently worked to create.
“UPND strongly condemns the opportunistic and disrespectful behavior exhibited by Lubinda. Under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, Zambia has experienced a shift towards a more peaceful, inclusive, and respectful political environment. The country is no longer marked by the political violence and bloodshed that characterised the PF era,” Katambo stated. “Funerals should never be used for political gain, and we urge Mr. Lubinda to reflect on his actions and issue an apology to the family of Dandy Krazy and to the Zambian people.”
Katambo stated that Lubinda’s actions served as a painful reminder of the political toxicity and opportunism that plagued the PF government.
He stated that Zambians were now enjoying a period of healing, unity and national reconciliation and Lubinda’s conduct at the funeral starkly contrasted this new era and demonstrated his failure to embrace the spirit of peaceful coexistence and respect that was being championed by the UPND.
Katambo stated that at a time when the nation was moving forward, Lubinda’s actions served as a painful reminder of the political toxicity and opportunism that plagued the PF government.
“We would like to commend minister of youth, sports, and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, for his exemplary conduct at the funeral through his presence, which was marked by respect and humility and reflects the true leadership we have come to expect from the UPND,” he stated.
Katambo also stated that the incident should serve as a reminder that the country deserved better leadership and better values from those who sought to be leaders.
He stated that sports minister Elvis Nkandu’s maturity and oneness with the people was an example of what Zambian leadership should look like – putting the people first, maintaining dignity and respecting the sanctity of such solemn occasions.
Katambo stated that the UPND would continue to foster a political culture that promoted respect, peace and national healing.
He further stated that UPND remained committed to creating a political environment that prioritised peace, unity and respect for all citizens, especially during moments of mourning.
“We call on all political leaders to emulate this spirit of maturity and unity,” stated Katambo.
