Patricia Mashiri- Zim Now Writer
A significant chapter in regional diplomacy has come to a respectful close as a delegation of esteemed African mediators issued a final statement, affirming their support for the Lungu family’s decisions and expressing continued solidarity amidst unresolved tensions.
The mediation followed prolonged disagreements between the Lungu family and the current Zambian administration, stemming from the legacy and funeral arrangements of the late President Edgar Lungu, who died in exile in South Africa earlier this year. His passing marked the end of a long-standing political rift with President Hakainde Hichilema, with controversy emerging over whether Lungu should be buried in Zambia or remain in South Africa, where he had been living.
Leading the mediation team was Dr. Bakili Muluzi, former President of Malawi and a respected figure in African diplomacy. He was joined by Mama Graça Machel, renowned humanitarian and advocate for peace, and His Highness Prince Estifanos Matewos of Ethiopia, a Pan-African thought leader known for his role in spiritual and traditional governance. Together, they approached the process with cultural sensitivity and a commitment to reconciliation.
Speaking on behalf of the team on June 24, 2025, Prince Estifanos acknowledged that while not all goals were achieved, the family’s grace and the process’s integrity remained intact. The mediators emphasized that the conclusion should not be viewed as a failure but as a dignified pause in a broader journey toward healing.
“We reaffirm, with humility and conviction, our enduring commitment to reconciliation, unity, and the respectful engagement of all parties involved,” Prince Estifanos said. “We thank the people of Zambia and the continent for their patience and belief in African-led solutions.”
The team assured the Lungu family of their continued moral support and pledged readiness to assist in addressing any remaining diplomatic concerns between Zambia and South Africa.
Leading the mediation team was Dr. Bakili Muluzi, former President of Malawi and a respected figure in African diplomacy. He was joined by Mama Graça Machel, renowned humanitarian and advocate for peace, and His Highness Prince Estifanos Matewos of Ethiopia, a Pan-African thought leader known for his role in spiritual and traditional governance. Together, they approached the process with cultural sensitivity and a commitment to reconciliation.
Speaking on behalf of the team on June 24, 2025, Prince Estifanos acknowledged that while not all goals were achieved, the family’s grace and the process’s integrity remained intact. The mediators emphasized that the conclusion should not be viewed as a failure but as a dignified pause in a broader journey toward healing.
“We reaffirm, with humility and conviction, our enduring commitment to reconciliation, unity, and the respectful engagement of all parties involved,” Prince Estifanos said. “We thank the people of Zambia and the continent for their patience and belief in African-led solutions.”
The team assured the Lungu family of their continued moral support and pledged readiness to assist in addressing any remaining diplomatic concerns between Zambia and South Africa.
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