By 
Former president Edgar Lungu skipped the 10th memorial Church service of late 5th Republican President Michael Sata for yet unexplained reasons.
The memorial service for Sata which was conducted by Lusaka Archidiocese Catholic Bishop, Dr. Alick Banda, was held at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus, Pope Square.
In the morning of Monday, October, 28, 2024, the Police had sealed off and condoned the entrances of the Cathedral, in the process blocking Archibishop Banda from conducting the service.
The clergy only reached a compromise with the Police around 10hours which saw the service proceed peacefully with hundreds of Lusaka residents in attendance.
Speaking to Journalists after the service, Edgar Lungu-led Patriotic Front faction Vice President Given Lubinda said Zambians would be informed on why Lungu did not attend the service at a media briefing with other decision that had been made.
“Today marks a special day as we gather at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus to honor the memory of Michael Chilufya Sata, today our president Edgar Chagwa Lungu should have led but he is not here and I will not pre-empt the reasons because we have a press briefing tomorrow at the party Secretariat,” Lubinda said.
He stated that Sata’s legacy lives on and the outpouring of support during the Church Service was a testament to the impact he had on many lives.
Lubinda echoed faction Secretary-General Raphael Nakacinda’s sentiments of thanking the Catholic Church’s gesture to allow all supporters to attend the memorial service without invitation cards, unlike the service at the Anglican Cathedral of Holy Cross.
He stated that it was a testament to the church’s role in bringing people together and honoring the faithful.
“As we remember Michael Sata, let’s reflect on his accomplishments and the lessons we can draw from his life. His story serves as a reminder that our actions and contributions can have a lasting impact on those around us,” Lubinda said.
During the Church Service, Archibishop Banda said: “Whatever happened this morning, we thank God, that we have prayed, Ba Sata balitemenwe Icibote (Sata loved peace).”
He described Sata as one politician who had no dull moments and ensured that his people were not subjected to poverty.
“Sata had a heart for the people who never wanted to see anyone around him sad and knew what to say to everyone at the right time,”he said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments