Hichilema urges unity, respect at Nawakwi memorial, says political competition not enmity

President Hakainde Hichilema says the United Party for National Development (UPND) remains open and committed to dialogue, which he described as a key tool for conflict resolution.

Speaking during the memorial service for former Cabinet Minister and Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) leader, Edith Nawakwi, at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka on Friday, President Hichilema said political competition should not translate into enmity, but rather be seen as a contest to serve the people.

“You can’t come to the table of dialogue with insults. For now, let’s respect and honour her; let’s mourn our sister in dignity. Afterwards, we can resume dialogue,” the President stated.

He called on mourners and the public to mourn Nawakwi with honour and dignity, noting that every citizen had a responsibility to ease the burden on the grieving family.

Read More: Body of late Nawakwi arrives Lusaka ahead of state funeral

President Hichilema thanked the late Nawakwi for her service to the nation, both as a Cabinet Minister and an opposition leader, including during her time with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

“We reiterate the importance of dialogue in conflict resolution. Let us not use the death of a person to polarise families or the nation. Instead, it is a moment to unite and offer support to the bereaved,” he said.

Meanwhile, FDD Vice President, Chifumu Banda, expressed gratitude to the government for the support rendered through the Ministry of Health, though he noted it came at the last hour.

Banda also called for greater tolerance in politics, noting that Nawakwi died with several unresolved matters hanging over her.

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