Zambian government denies claims of blocking King Letsie III from Kuomboka ceremony

The Zambian government has dismissed rumours suggesting that it blocked King Letsie III of the Kingdom of Lesotho from attending the 2025 Kuomboka Ceremony scheduled for April 5.

Eva Chanda, Principal Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, described the reports as false and emphasized that they do not reflect the government’s official stance.

In response to the claims that the government had denied the king entry, Chanda affirmed that President Hakainde Hichilema and King Letsie III share a cordial and friendly relationship, a sentiment reinforced during their recent bilateral engagements, including discussions at the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, earlier this year.

Chanda clarified that the proper diplomatic protocols were followed for the invitation of King Letsie III, with President Hichilema issuing a formal invitation on behalf of His Majesty the Litunga Imwiko II.

Contrary to the rumors, Chanda revealed that King Letsie III had sent his regrets for the event due to prior national commitments, and noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation had not denied clearance for any dignitaries, including the king.

“The announcement of President Hichilema’s attendance at the Kuomboka does not preclude the invitation or attendance of other dignitaries,” she said.

Chanda further stated that the Zambian government deeply respects the customs and traditions of the Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE) and all traditional leaders in Zambia.

She urged the public and media to refrain from spreading unverified information that could damage Zambia’s diplomatic relations with other nations.

“The Ministry remains dedicated to fostering strong, cordial relationships with all regional and international partners in the spirit of unity for mutually beneficial collaborations,” Chanda said.

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