United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Lusaka Presbytery Bishop, Lordwell Siame, says the South African court’s verdict regarding the late former President Edgar Lungu’s burial presents a critical window of opportunity for the church, government, the Lungu family, and other elders to unite and find a resolution to the ongoing dispute over his final resting place.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News today, Rev Bishop Siame said there is need for national unity, respect, and dialogue in the wake of a verdict.
“This judgment opens a door for sober dialogue, it is now time to gather around a round table, put differences aside, and determine how best our former President can be laid to rest with dignity and national unity before the final ruling by the court,” said Rev Bishop Siame.
He emphasized the importance of approaching the matter with maturity and mutual respect and further warned against inflammatory language and personal attacks, especially on social media, calling instead for a national posture of reflection and reverence.
“Let us avoid insulting one another on social media but instead, respect the process and, above all, the memory of the departed,” urged the Bishop.
Rev Bishop Siame has also appealed to the Religious Affairs Committee under the Office of the Vice President to engage clergy who are capable of helping guide the reconciliation and burial process in a way that honors both tradition and the law.
By Margaret Mwanza
